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Italian Green Beans

Romano beans (aka Italian string beans) are really just a different variety of snap bean, and are grown and eaten the same way. Broad flat-podded green snap beans with five- to six-inch pods are often called Italian Pole or Romano beans, and varieties include Roma, Greencrop, and Bush Romano. Anchovy paste makes these good; don’t tell folks what is in them and they will eat them up.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 4

Ingredients

1 pound fresh Italian green beans, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 garlic cloves, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon anchovy paste
Freshly ground black pepper
2 ounces Romano cheese, shaved with a vegetable peeler

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large skillet set over medium heat, cook the green beans and garlic in the olive oil for 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup water to the pan. Cook, stirring, for 10 minutes or until the beans are tender. Stir in the anchovy paste and pepper.

    Step 2

    Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the green beans to a serving platter and top with the Romano cheese.

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