Garlic Green Beans

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large Pot of generously salted water to a boil over high heat.

2. 2

   While the water heats, trim the stem ends off the Green Beans. If any are especially long, snap them in half.

3. 3

   Prepare an ice bath: fill a large Mixing Bowl with cold water and a handful of ice cubes. Set it near the stove.

4. 4

   Add the Green Beans to the boiling water and blanch for 3 to 4 minutes, until bright green and just barely tender — they should still have a slight snap.

5. 5

   Using a spider strainer or Tongs, immediately transfer the beans to the ice bath to stop the cooking. Let them sit for 2 minutes, then drain well and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

6. 6

   Heat a large Skillet over medium heat. Add the Olive Oil and Butter. Once the butter is melted and the foam subsides, add the Garlic (and Red Pepper Flakes, if using).

7. 7

   Sauté the Garlic, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes until it is lightly golden and fragrant. Watch it closely — garlic goes from golden to burnt quickly. Reduce the heat to medium-low if it's browning too fast.

8. 8

   Add the drained Green Beans to the Skillet. Toss well to coat in the garlic butter. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes until the beans are heated through and beginning to pick up a little color.

9. 9

   Season with Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. If using, squeeze the Lemon Juice over the top and toss once more.

10. 10

    Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately.