Instructions

  1. Blanch the string beans in a large pot of boiling salted water for 1-1/2 minutes only.
  2. Drain immediately and immerse in a bowl of ice water.
  3. Heat the butter and oil in a very large saute pan or large pot(12" diameter) and saute the shallots with crrushed red pepper flakes, if using, on medium heat for 5-10 minutes, tossing occasionally, until lightly browned.
  4. Drain the string beans and add to the shallots with 1/2 teaspoon salt and the pepper, tossing well.
  5. Heat only until the beans are hot.
  6. *If you are using regular string beans, blanch them for about 3 minutes, until they're crisp-tender.