Flavorful Green Beans

Adapted from eatfresh.org
Provided by the Auburn Interfaith Food Closet

RECIPE TYPE:  Vegetable, Side Dish

SERVES:  4

PREP TIME:     10 minutes

TOTAL TIME:  30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped (1 teaspoon) or 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic powder
• 1 12-oz. package of frozen green beans (or 1 lb. fresh green beans, rinsed and drained)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

 DIRECTIONS:

• Wash hands. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat.  Sauté the chopped onions until tender, about 5 minutes.  Add the garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Add the frozen green beans, dried herbs, and 1/4 cup water to the pan. Bring to a boil, and cover.  Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, until beans are tender.  Stir occasionally.
• Drain, sprinkle with the optional Parmesan cheese, and serve warm.

Note:  If using fresh green beans, snap off (or cut off) and discard green beans tips.  Place rinsed and trimmed green beans in a pot with 1 cup of water.  Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.  Drain water, then proceed with steps 1 to 3 above.