Make-Ahead Holiday Green Beans

Published November 1, 2001.

Cooking the beans ahead saves time when you need it most-in the final moments before dinner.

The Problem

Most vegetable side dishes require significant last-minute preparation -- which no one wants when preparing and assembling a multicourse holiday meal.

The Goal

Green beans -- the perfect side dish -- that can be prepared largely beforehand without sacrificing texture or flavor.

The Solution

Blanch the beans to ensure a crisp texture, then refrigerate them for up to three days. When the rest of the meal is ready, toss the beans in a hot skillet with a simple butter sauce.

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