1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh garlic
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
Bring water and salt to a full boil in 10-inch skillet; add beans. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until beans are crisply tender (9 to 14 minutes). Drain beans; then return the beans to the skillet. Add all remaining ingredients. Continue cooking until garlic is tender (2 to 3 minutes).
Microwave Directions: Decrease water to 1/4 cup. Place beans and water in 2-quart casserole. Cover; microwave on HIGH (stirring after half the time) until crisply tender (6 to 10 minutes). Drain. Stir in all remaining ingredients. Cover; microwave on HIGH (stirring after half the time) until garlic is tender (2 to 3 minutes).
Variation:
Sprinkle 2 ounces freshly grated or shredded Parmesan cheese over beans; let stand 2 minutes before serving.
Makes 4 servings.