Green Bean Bundles

• 1 large carrot peeled
• 1 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed
• 3 tbls unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• Red bell pepper strips (optional)
• Lemon peel strips (optional)

1. Using vegetable peeler, scrape 8 long strips from carrot. Bring large pot of water to boil. Add carrot strips and cook until limp, about 45 seconds. Transfer carrot to work surface: cool. Add beans to same pot and boil until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Drain, Refresh under cold water and drain again.
2. Using heavy large knife, trim sides of each carrot strip to even. Gather 8-12 green beans in bundle. Wrap 1 carrot strip around bundle and tie in knot. Trim carrot ends if necessary. Repeat with remaining beans and carrot strips. (Can be made 8 hours ahead), Cover and chill)
3. Place green bean bundles in steamer and cook until heated through. Melt butter in heavy small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic; saute 30 seconds. Place bundles on platter. Brush with butter. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with bell pepper and lemon if desired.

carrot, green beans, butter, garlic, red bell pepper, peel strips

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/green-bean-bundles-50014257 (may not work)