This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

　　Salt is a magnificent flavor enhancer. This simple low-fat recipe demonstrates how salt—and little else—can bring out the best in green beans, even in winter.

Ingredients

　　1 pound green beans

　　8 cups water

　　3 1/2 tablespoons salt

　　1 teaspoon unsalted butter

　　Trim beans and cut into 1-inch pieces. In a 3-quart saucepan bring water with salt to a boil and simmer beans until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain beans in a colander and return to pan. Toss beans with butter and pepper to taste.