Toasted nuts are a simple way to embellish green beans. If you have hazelnut or walnut oil on hand, use it in place of the olive oil to enhance the nutty flavor.

Makes 4 servings

ACTIVE TIME: 20 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

1 pound green beans, stem ends trimmed
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped peeled hazelnuts or walnuts
1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste

1. Cook beans in a large pot of boiling salted water until just tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain.
2. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over low heat. Add nuts and cook, stirring, until golden, about 1 minute. Return the reserved beans to the pot and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 104 calories; 6 g fat (0 g sat, 4 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 11 g carbohydrate; 3 g protein; 7 g fiber; 145 mg sodium; 261 mg potassium.

Nutrition bonus: Fiber (28% daily value), Vitamin C (22% dv).

0 Carbohydrate Servings

Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat (mono)