Green Beans

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INGREDIENTS

3 quarts water
1 tablespoon salt
2 pounds very thin green beans
3-1/2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper
Lemon juice (optional)

Bring the water and salt to a boil in a large pot.

In the meantime, string the beans and break off the ends of each one. Drop the beans into the boiling water and boil rapidly, uncovered, for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on size and how you like them. Use a slotted spoon to push down any beans that stick out of the water.

Fill a large basin or bowl with cold water and a tray of ice cubes. When the beans are done (taste one - you may want to cook them longer), drain them and drop them immediately into the ice water. Leave for 3 minutes, then lift out and drain completely.

Just before serving, melt the butter in a large frying pan, add the beans, season with salt and pepper, and warm over low heat, shaking the pan frequently.

Serve as soon as the beans are good and hot (if you like, you can sprinkle them with a little lemon juice just before serving).