Holiday Green Beans

In case you didn't catch this post over at Whatever Dee-Dee Wants... I thought I would share it with you today. If you are someone like me who is still looking for recipes for the big day tomorrow.
Good luck with all your Thanksgiving cooking tomorrow (and today probably!). I hope it is tasty, relaxing, and filled with people you love!

I love Thanksgiving. I love being with friends and family. I love listening to people express gratitude that may some other time be suppressed. And I, of course, love good food.
Last year we celebrated Thanksgiving with my in-laws. They make the traditional delicious food. Of course I was asked to make my Dinner Rolls I offered to make something as well (mostly because I was starting to think my in-laws only thought I could make rolls). I was assigned the green bean casserole. You know, the typical with the sauce and the fried onions. I love that dish, but decided to go a fresher route. Thanksgiving has so many rich dishes that I needed a veggie that kept its freshness. I was truly thankful last year for this recipe. It was the perfect balance of freshness but still felt like the holidays. I think my family enjoyed it too - I got more compliments on my beans than I did my rolls!
These have now become a favorite in our house. Not just for the holidays, but anytime I want something extra with my beans.

Holiday Green Beans

1 lb bag frozen green beans
1 small onion, chopped
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 cup apple juice or cider
salt and pepper
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Microwave your green beans, covered for about 5 minutes. Uncover and microwave for 3 to 7 more minutes until desired tenderness. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Meanwhile, in a small frying pan, saute onion in the olive oil until just caramelized, about 10 minutes. Add apple juice and increase heat to about medium high and simmer until reduced and syrupy.
Toss sauce over beans. Garnish with cranberries.

*I don't usually use the french cut green beans, but I accidentally bought them this time. It's still just as good.
*If you want an extra layer of crunch, add toasted almonds to the garnish.