holiday green beans

You could, of course, have these anytime, but during the holiday season is when they regularly appear at our table. I prefer to use fresh green beans when I can, and this simple dish adds a bit of freshness to what can sometimes be heavy and hearty winter meals.

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:
1 pound green beans, ends trimmed and long ones cut in half
1 medium sized yellow onion, finely diced
4-5 garlic cloves, minced
Salt to taste and a small amount of black pepper
A little butter and/or oil for cooking
1 small lemon (1/2 juiced, 1/2 cut in wedges to garnish plate)
Optional additions: chopped mushrooms and fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary

Method:
1. Saute the onions and garlic (and mushrooms if using) in butter/oil over medium heat, until softened and starting to brown.
2. Add green beans, stirring and cooking until slightly softened, but still with a good bite to them
3. Add salt and pepper (and herbs if using).
4. Remove from heat and add lemon juice.