4.17.2011

Lemony Green Beans with Mushrooms

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I have not always had the best relationship with green beans.  For the longest time, I thought of green beans in one way... short, a lifeless shade of green and extremely mushy, served along side mystery meat and mashed potatoes.  They only seemed to show up in cafeterias for me and they just seemed sad.  It really wasn't until I spotted this recipe in my favorite cookbook that I thought I should give them a shot.  Sure glad I was able to move on because this is a keeper.  Bright and crisp beans mixed with mushrooms in a light and lemony sauce is just wonderful.  Just a few ingredients, healthy and quick... what more could you ask for?

From my little kitchen to yours... Enjoy.
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Lemony Green Beans with Mushrooms
Adapted from Peace Meals, Junior League of Houston
Recipe Notes
Cremini mushrooms look a lot like white button mushrooms.  The outsides are just a little darker and they have a heartier taste.  I recommend using these, but if you can't find them, substitute white button mushrooms.  For the green beans, "trimmed" simply means to cut off both ends.  For a how to on blanching the beans, click here.  Remember, you want them to stay crisp so cook just until they turn bright green. 
Ingredients
3/4 pound fresh green beans, washed and trimmed
2 tablespoons butter
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced about a 1/4 inch thick
coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
zest and juice of one lemon
Step by Step
Blanch the beans in boiling water and cook for about 4 minutes until tender and bright green.  Cool the beans under cold running water, drain and set aside.  Heat the butter in a medium saute pan over medium- low heat.  Add mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes over medium heat.  Do not stir.  Season well with salt and pepper.  Mix in seasonings and continue to cook for 2 minutes.  Add beans, lemon zest and juice.  Cover pan and cook for 3 minutes.  Serve immediately. 

7 comments:

  1. haha. I had the same thoughts on green beans for a long time, but they can be so fresh. Great looking recipe!

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  2. This looks like such a fresh and easy side. Yum!

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  3. I happen to love green beans and yours look fantastic. The mushrooms add a earthiness to the freshness of the beans. Lovely!

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  4. What a fresh looking side for spring. I am going to file this recipe away until our beans sprout in the garden. Looks like a perfect use.

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  5. Wow, this sounds so yummie, never though in adding lemon...the picture is amazing as well. Hope you have a great week ahead Ashlea :-)

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  6. Oh, these look like a perfect side for our Easter lunch. Just in time! I didn't feel like doing a salad, but wanted something fresh and green. Yum, these look great.

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  7. I'm such a sucker for mushrooms and love green beans and lemon as well. Looks delicious!

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