Cent ‘Anni: Fresh green beans from the farmer’s market remind me of home

Photo by Maria Desiderata Montana

My Italian father had a pool-sized organic garden in our backyard while I was growing up.  I loved watching the green beans hanging like Christmas ornaments amidst the leaves.

There is nothing that tastes better than fresh picked green beans. I like to enjoy them steamed (al dente) on top of pasta and covered with marinara sauce and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Sometimes I just forgo the pasta and pass the time by dipping  the beans in sauce and cheese.  This is a tasty and low-fat way to get a serving of healthy veggies, and your kids will like it too.

Want a great appetizer?  Steam some green beans and arrange on a large serving platter.  Stick a bowl of warm marinara sauce sprinkled with Parmigiano-Reggiano in the middle of the platter and dip away!

See how uncomplicated food and fun can be?

Maria Desiderata Montana is an award-winning food and wine journalist, editor, and published author based in San Diego. She gained an appreciation of European cuisine from her parents who were born and raised in Calabria, Italy. Visit her website at www.sandiegofoodfinds.com.