Romano-Roasted Green Beans

I am happy to report that I am feeling much better! My condition, such as it is, remains undiagnosed and I'm still waiting for an appointment to see a rheumatologist but thanks to my steady diet of nutritious foods, regular prayer and regular self-nurturing, I am definitely on the mend.

My diet these days consists mostly of fresh vegetables--with a little meat, cheese and carbohydrates thrown in the mix for good measure. I was craving green beans and decided to try a dish I saw Tyler Florence make--Parmesan Roasted Green Beans (with my little spin, of course). Plus, green beans were the perfect choice because they are an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin C and my body needs the extra boost of nutrients right now.  This is a quick, easy, fun recipe you can make for everyday meals or for special occasions.

Romano-Roasted Green Beans

Seasoned & Stirred with love by LBTurner

  

1 pound green beans (trimmed & washed)

1 tablespoon light olive oil

1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)

1 teaspoon minced garlic (raw or roasted)

1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/8 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a medium mixing bowl, add all of the ingredients except the Romano cheese. Mix thoroughly until the beans are well coated with the oil and spices.

Add a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil to a cookie sheet pan. Spread the beans out evenly on the sheet, sprinkle the cheese on top and bake for 20 minutes or until the beans are tender and the cheese has browned. The cheese will melt over the beans and form a crust on the bottom of the pan.

Remove the beans from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes. Using a spatula, lift the beans from the pan and place into serving dish. Use the spatula to scrape the remaining bits of cheese from the pan and sprinkle over the green beans.

Notes: This recipe makes 2-3 servings. The brown sugar can be substituted for raw or white sugar or omitted altogether. The Romano cheese can be substituted for Parmesan or another hard cheese.