My Husband's Green Beans

I have always had rather tepid feelings about green beans. They are one of two standard choices for vegetable when attending a catered dinner in our hometown (the other choice being corn). Somehow those green beans swimming in the water from the can leave much to be desired in taste and are certainly not the slightest bit appealing to look at. Yes, I had just about given up green beans as a lost cause. That is until my husband started making them his way. I am reformed.

Please note: this is more a method than a recipe. Adjust to your taste.

olive oil
diced onion
minced garlic
ham or bacon, chopped or diced as desired
green beans
salt and pepper
water

Step 1: Over medium heat, saute desired amount of diced onion in a tablespoon or two of olive oil. When onions begin to soften, add minced garlic and ham or bacon, (we often use deli ham or packaged real bacon pieces), and continue to saute until onion is tender.

Step 2: Add fresh or frozen green beans. You can use canned, but they are not as good. Add salt and pepper. Saute for a couple minutes until beans just begin to brown.

Step 3: Add a few tablespoons of water (just enough to create some steam) and put the lid on the pan. Allow to steam until green beans reach desired tenderness. Stir occasionally and add a bit more water if necessary.

ps. The beans pictured are from our garden last summer. We can't wait to grow some more this year!!