5-Minute Green Beans

<img src="http://www.selfgrowth.com/images/5minutegreenbeans.jpg">

Green beans are a rich source of vitami
K, C, and A, as well as health-promoting carotenoid phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, and one cup contains only 44 calories—great reasons to enjoy this easy-to-prepare recipe as part of your Healthiest Way of Eating.

Prep and Cook Time: 8 minutesr
Serves 2

Ingredients:
• 1 lb green beans
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 medium cloves garlic, chopped
• 3 TBS extra virgin olive oil
• Sea salt and pepper to taste

Optional:
• 3 TBS goat cheese
• 2 TBS sliced almonds
• 4-5 drops soy sauce
• 1 TBS sliced sun dried tomatoes
• 2 TBS roasted red bell peppers
• 1 TBS chopped basil

Directions:
1. Chop garlic and let sit for at least 5 minutes to bring out its health promoting properties.
2. Fill the bottom of a steamer pot with 2 inches of water.
3. While steam is building up in steamer, cut ends off green beans.
4. steam for 5 minutes. A fork should pierce through them easily when they are done.
5. Transfer to a bowl. For more flavor, toss green beans with the remaining ingredients while they are sill hot.