Reflections…

These beans are a mainstay in our house.  And this summer we are likely to have them even more often.  Believe me, I am not complaining .   Nathan has poles and plans to make teepees which are connected together in a triangle.  Apparently the rattlesnake beans we purchased will grow all summer long and need to be picked 3 times a week.  He tells me the beans are supposed to grow across the top and they will hang down so we can pick them from on high! 

Groovy Garlic Green Beans

16 oz. french cut green beans (or the equivalent amount of fresh)
1/3 cup olive oil
10 cloves garlic, pressed
1 pinch red pepper flakes (we have a spoon labeled ‘pinch’; I think it’s around 1/8 tsp.  Use more if you like it hot!)
salt to taste

Place beans in a large skillet.  Add all ingredients (sometimes I hold back half of the cloves until the last 10 minutes or so of cooking).  Cook on low until beans are cooked down and tender, stirring frequently.  It helps to cook the first 5 minutes or so with a lid on, to get it nice and hot (esp. if frozen).  Then, when it is sizzling nicely, cook it like a stir fry until all the flavors are blended, the water is steamed out (if frozen), and the beans are nice and tender.  Enjoy!