Wednesday's Chow - Green Beans with Basil

So, you may have noticed The Biggest Loser logo on the right side there. I joined the club in January and did pretty well (7 pounds) until this past weekend. I sorta went wild and gained a few pounds back...yeah in a WEEKEND! That bites. But I'm back on track today (excpet for the Brach's Pastel Fiesta Malted Milk Eggs--which ONLY are on sale this time of the year....but that's another post, which I think I really do need to post about).

With the club, you get a daily menu and recipes. The other day, I made these green beans and let me tell you...they are really good. Usually, I just steam the beans and salt them. But these few added, low calorie additions really make the beans great. A very nice side dish and not too complicated.

Green Beans with Basil

12 ounces of fresh green beans, ends and strings removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 teaspoons of butter
½ cup onion, chopped
¼ cup celery, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable broth*
1 teaspoon fresh basil, finely chopped OR
¼ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon dried rosemary

*I used water and beef bullion glandular.

Steam beans until beans are crisp-tender: In a large saucepan, bring 1-inch of water to a boil. Place the beans in a steamer basket and set the basket in the saucepan, making sure the basket sits above the water. Cover and steam for 5 to 8 minutes.

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a skillet. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook and stir over medium heat for 4 minutes. Add the broth, basil and rosemary. Cook and stir about 1 minute more or until the celery is tender. Add beans and mix well. Serve warm.

4 servings. 50 calories a serving.

Anna Kathryn
www.aklanier.com