Thanksgiving Success

This year for Thanksgiving, we tried out several new recipes and while everything was fantastic these green beans turned out to be my favorite dish! This recipe comes from the incredible resources of the Vegetarian Times. With 10 carnivores and 3 vegetarians in my house for the holidays, creative vegetarian dishes are a must! This is just like your traditional green bean casserole except you get to skip the weird cream of mushroom soup and fake onions.

Serves 8

Shallot crisps are the star attraction here and can be made in advance. In a tightly sealed jar, they will keep at room temperature for 2 weeks—but you’d better hide the jar.

Shallot Crisps

• 5 large shallots (½ lb.), peeled and sliced into thin rings
• ½ cup vegetable oil

Green Beans

• 2 lb. green beans, trimmed
• 3 Tbs. apple cider vinegar
• 3 Tbs. Dijon mustard
• 3 Tbs. vegetable oil
• 3 Tbs. pure maple syrup
• 1 cup toasted chopped walnuts (½ lb.)

1. To make Shallot Crisps: Spread shallot rings on paper towel, sprinkle with salt, and cover with another paper towel. Let stand 10 minutes. Blot excess moisture from shallots.2. Heat oil in small saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots, and fry 2 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring frequently.3. Pour shallots and oil through fine mesh strainer, or remove shallots with slotted spoon. Spread shallots on paper towels to drain and cool. Discard oil. Store shallots in jar, if desired.4. To make Green Beans: Cook beans in large pot of boiling salted water 5 to 8 minutes, or until just tender. Drain. Whisk together vinegar, mustard, oil, and maple syrup in serving bowl. Add green beans, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Top with Shallot Crisps and chopped walnuts, and serve.