Makdous-Style Garlicky Green Beans with Walnuts

Ingredients

• 1 lb green beans, trimmed

• 3 garlic cloves

• ¼ tsp salt

• 3 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)

• 1 tbsp red pepper paste (or 1/2 red pepper chopped into small pieces)

• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for brightness)

Directions

1. Blanch or steam green beans just until tender but still bright, 3–4 minutes. Drain and let cool completely.

2. Mash garlic and salt together in a mortar and pestle to form a smooth paste. Mix in the red pepper paste and olive oil to create a thick dressing.

3. Toss green beans with the garlicky mixture until well coated.

4. Mix in chopped walnuts. Add lemon juice if you want a fresher finish.

5. Let sit for at least 10–15 minutes so the flavors absorb (or refrigerate for a few hours — it gets better) and add a drizzle of olive oil before serving.