Ingredients

4 cups water
1 pound thin French green beans
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup quartered cherry tomatoes
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 11/2 teaspoons dried basil
Salt and pepper

Directions

Boil 4 cups water in a large saucepan. Add 1 pound thin French green beans and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain beans well and transfer to serving platter.

In same saucepan, melt butter until hot. Add garlic and cook 2 minutes over medium heat, being careful not to burn garlic. Add tomatoes and herbs. Cook about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spoon mixture over green beans to serve. Makes 6 servings.

Note: French green beans are available year-round in many supermarkets. Regular green beans can be substituted, but a longer cooking time may be needed.