1 lb. fresh, tender green beans
4 strips thick sliced bacon
3 oz. blue cheese, crumbled
1 1/2 c. walnut halves, toasted (toast in 350 degree oven for 5 minutes)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Bring saucepan or water to boil, and add the beans. Simmer until crisp tender, about 4 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water and drain again. Set them aside.

Cut the bacon slices into 1/4" wide strips. Place them in a skillet and cook over medium heat until well cooked, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside to drain on paper towels. Reserve about 1/2 the bacon drippings in skillet.

Add the green beans to the skillet (with bacon drippings) and heat through over medium heat, for 2 minutes. Add the blue cheese and toss until the cheese just begins to melt, about 30 seconds. Sprinkle with the walnuts and lots of pepper and serve immediately. Makes 4 portions.