Lemon Green Beans with Feta and Fried Pecans

Steps

1. Use the side of a chef's knife to crush the garlic. Mince it finely, then crush it again with the side of the knife. (If you have a mortar and pestle, you could use that.) Place the garlic in a small bowl and add 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mash it together with a fork. Add 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and set aside.

2. In a small skillet heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. When hot, add the pecans. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they are nutty and fragrant. Remove to a paper towel lined plate, sprinkle with a little salt, and set aside.

3. In a large pot, add about 7 cups of water and 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the green beans, cover, and set a timer for 3 minutes. Drain the green beans into a colander and rinse with cold water.

4. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat in a large skillet. When it is hot, add the rinsed green beans. Saute for 5-6 minutes, or until the green beans reach the crisp-tender level that you want.

5. Remove from heat and add the lemon-garlic mixture. Season with freshly ground pepper to taste. Toss in the pecans and the 1/2 cup feta. Serve with extra lemon wedges and lemon zest to garnish.