simple seared green beans

from vegan soul kitchen

this is less about flavors and more about technique. maybe not one i would have even made, but the simple seasoning was perfect for a side our visiting nephew would actually eat, as he does not like things that have “too much flavor.” that said, i thought these were super garlicky, but when j had them later he said the garlic didn’t come through much.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Soundtrack: "Lay It Down" by Al Green featuring Anthony Hamilton from Lay It Down

1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt

11/2 pounds fresh green beans, snapped at each end

1 tablespoon Garlic Olive Oil (below)

Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the green beans and cook 2 to 3 min- utes, until tender but al dente. Drain the green beans into a colander and shock in a bowl filled with ice water. Drain again and pat dry.

In a large skillet or a wok over high heat, heat the Garlic Olive Oil until hot, add the green beans and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and cook, tossing constantly, until coated with olive oil and cooked through, about 3 minutes. Serve immediately.

Garlic olive oil

Yield: 1 cup

Soundtrack: "Who Rize Above" by Dragons of Zynth from Coronation Thieves

This can be used whenever olive oil is called for to infuse a dish with garlic flavor.

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

10 large cloves garlic, chopped finely

In a small saucepan, combine the oil and the garlic. Turn the heat to the lowest point at which the oil will simmer and cook for 30 minutes.

Strain the oil into a sterilized canning jar and let cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to one month.