Garlic Green Beans
Servings: 12
Ingredients
- 2 lbs green beans trimmed but left whole, you can also cut the beans into bite-sized pieces an inch long if that's your preference
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs sage and chives?
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- kosher salt to taste
- fresh ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large pot of salted water to boil. When it comes to a boil, add the green beans, return to a boil, and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the beans break easily and are tender inside but still have a good bite to them. Strain the beans and place in cold, preferably iced, water so they don't cook any more.
- Place extra virgin olive oil and garlic in a wok or large skillet. Sauté over medium-low heat until the garlic becomes very aromatic and colors lightly. Add the red pepper flakes and sesame seeds to the wok, stir-fry for a minute. Then add the herbs and mix.
- Add blanched green beans (all water drained) to the wok or skillet. Add salt to taste and, if you wish, a dash of ground black pepper. Use a pair of tongs to mix the green beans with the herbs and sesame seeds so all the beans are evenly coated. Let the beans warm through, then turn off heat.
Notes
Variations:
- Parmesan green beans: For cheese lovers, sprinkle on a handful of vegan parmesan cheese after the beans are ready.
- Top with caramelized onions: This adds some wonderful sweetness and more texture.
- Top with nuts. Sliced, lightly toasted almonds, walnuts or pecans are a delicious topping for the garlic green beans.