Yes, my name really is spelled that way.

10/19/2010

green beans, 3 ways (#1).

Green beans are in season and they are my favorite go-to side dish.  Before you say bbbooorrriinngg - these aren't the steamed green beans topped with those awful onions people call traditional for Thanksgiving.  Rather, they are bursting with flavor.  I make green beans into three different recipes: French, Asian and Mexican. Since the weather has suddenly cooled down, I am in the mood for a spicy, modern take on Mexican.... 

Base Recipe
Handful of trimmed green beans first partially steamed in the microwave (or stovetop but I don't like to wash that many pans).  Heat a skillet with a little oil and saute until slightly crisp (usually only about 3-5 minutes).  Note: The pre-steaming just cooks them a lot faster.  
 Mexican Green Beans
Grapeseed or canola oil (drizzle for pan)
Chopped onion 
Chopped jalapeno (partially deseeded- I usually take out almost 1/2)
Pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
Chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook green beans according to base recipe.  While they are steaming, add oil to pan and saute onion.  Add jalapeno after a few minutes.  In another pan, add pepitas with a dash of chili powder to lightly toast.  Add green beans to onions and jalapeno mixture, then salt and pepper.  Stir and cook for a few minutes.  Plate and add chili infused pepitas on top.  
 I made a quick and easy goat cheese quesadilla with Trader Joe's corn salsa to accompany the green beans.  Oh yeah, and a Cadillac margarita - yum!  More green bean recipes to come....

2 comments:

  1. Definitely just wrote that down! LOL!

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  2. I was thinking of you and our Mexican food discussion! Hope it turns out for you :)

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