Green Bean Bits with Crispy Garlic: Easier for your kids to eat

For Son, who can't eat many things, but loves this

On a recent visit to Son's allergist, I was informed that I was to "expand the diet" of Son. After testing for numerous things, although Son was allergic to peas, he was NOT allergic to green beans. But because Son's eczema gets wildly out of control and he scratches until he's red and raw, it is hard for me to take the leap and introduce new food items to him, even when the doctor says it's fine. But I was told to keep "expanding the diet" and in the back of my mind I knew I had to take the step.

As Daughters love green beans, I have many methods of preparations for them. But for ease of eating for Son, I decided to try something new. I cut the french green beans into 3/4 inch pieces because I figured that they would be easier for Son to consume. I also defaulted to his favorite preparation of green vegetable which is the crispy garlic version I use with broccoli and bok choy. The result was a super yummy side dish that was quick to cook and quick to eat. Son agreed and gobbled up bits of green beans by the fistful and it was clear that he liked it.

On another note, cutting the green beans up may make this vegetable less intimidating for those kids who do not like green vegetables as now the bits are bite-sized and easy to pop into their mouth. I never thought about how difficult green beans could be to eat for kids, until today, when Daughter #2 said, "Hey mom! Look! These I can chew really really fast."

Green Bean Bits with Crispy Garlic
Serves 5

1 lb fresh green beans (I like French green beans - pretrimmed at Costco)
5-6 cloves of garlic thinly sliced
2 tablespoons mild flavored oil (I like canola or can even use olive oil)
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Cut green beans into 3/4 inch bits. The easiest way to do this is to grab a handful, line them up and slice through the bunch.

2. Heat a fry pan over medium high heat. Add oil. Add garlic and a pinch of salt. Watch VERY carefully as garlic can quickly burn. Wait until garlic is golden and then add the cut green bean bits. Saute over medium high heat until green beans are tender and slightly blistered, about 5 minutes.

3. Serve and enjoy!

Printable recipe