GARLICKY GREEN BEANS

1 pound fresh green beans, rinsed and snapped
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
1 T. butter
2 cloves fresh garlic, peeled and minced
¼ cup water
2 t. chicken bouillon crystals
Black pepper to taste

Heat the oil and butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beans and stir to coat with the butter mixture.

Add the garlic. Lower the heat to medium and cook until the beans turn bright green throughout, 5-7 minutes, stirring often.

Add the water and bouillon crystals, raise the heat to high, bring the liquid to a sizzle. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently until the beans are crisp-tender, about 5- 7 minutes; or cook longer, to desired doneness. Season the beans with pepper and serve at once.