The Mysterious Can of Green Beans: A Recipe Born from Expiration Doubt

Introduction:
We’ve all been there—halfway through cooking, only to discover a key ingredient is missing. In a pinch, I asked my neighbor for a can of green beans. What he handed me was… questionable. The label was faded, the can slightly dented, and let’s just say the expiration date seemed more historical than recent. I tossed it (no regrets), ran to the store, and ended up making something way better. Here’s a dish inspired by that moment of kitchen chaos—a fresh and flavorful Green Bean & Garlic Sauté that’s safe, simple, and shelf-stable-conscious.

Ingredients:

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed (or 1 can green beans, check the date!)

2 tbsp olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Juice of ½ lemon

1 tbsp toasted almonds or chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

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