Season some fresh green beans
While green beans may have a ways to go in the home garden, they are making a welcome appearance in many produce departments and farmers’ markets. These versatile beans are good when boiled, steamed, stir-fried or sautéed, and shine in everything from soup to salad. But fresh green beans often are best when seasoned with flavors that enhance their taste and texture without hiding it.
- - - - -
Lemon Pepper Green Beans
1 pound fresh green beans (about 3-1/2 cups), rinsed and trimmed
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 teaspoons lemon pepper
Place green beans in a steamer over 1 inch of boiling water. Cover, and cook until tender but still firm, about 10 minutes; drain. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add almonds and sauté until lightly browned. Season with lemon pepper. Stir in green beans; toss to coat. Makes 6 servings.
- - - - -
Seasoned Green Beans
1 pound fresh green beans (about 3-1/2 cups), rinsed and trimmed
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
Place beans in a steamer basket; place in a saucepan over 1 inch of water. Bring to a boil; cover and steam until crisp-tender, about 7 to 8 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the butter and seasonings. Drain beans; add butter mixture and toss to coat. Makes 4 servings.
- - - - -
Japanese-Style Sesame Green Beans
1 tablespoon canola oil
1-1/2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 pound fresh green beans (about 3-1/2 cups), rinsed and trimmed
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Warm a large skillet or wok over medium heat. When the skillet is hot, pour in canola and sesame oils, then place whole green beans into the skillet. Stir the beans to coat with oil. Cook until the beans are bright green and slightly browned in spots, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in soy sauce; cover, and let sit about 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Makes 4 servings.
- - - - -
Pantry Pointers
When buying green beans, look for ones that are smooth, firm, and brightly colored. Avoid beans that feel rubbery or limp. Store them unwashed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator and use within four days after purchase.
Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber. They also contain antioxidants and are a good source of potassium.
The Practical Pantry ©2006 Tammy P. Olson
http://www.practicalpantry.com
Next entry: Bring honey mustard to the grill
Previous entry: Bring red, white, and blue to Independence Day