The secret to a delicious pile of green beans? Cook them until they are soft on the outside, snappy on the inside. A little seasoning and voila, green bean perfection!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb green beans, trimmed

• generous pinch kosher salt

• 1-2 grinds black pepper

• 1/2 tbsp butter

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place a heavy-bottomed saucepan with a few inches of water over high heat. Put in a steamer insert (either a basket steamer or an insert for your saucepan works well). Add beans and turn on high. When the water boils, turn the heat down to medium to maintain a gentle boil.

2. Steam for about 7 minutes or until your desired level of crisp/tenderness.

3. Top with butter and salt and serve immediately.