If you’re looking for a quick veggie side for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, try this deliciously fresh combination. It works with everything from fried chicken to grilled fish, chicken or steaks — and it’s delicious hot or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics!

Recipe: Vegetables: Hericots Verts with Almonds and Mushrooms
Serves 4

1 pound fresh hericots verts (skinny French green beans), cleaned
6 cremini mushrooms, cleaned and thickly sliced
4 Tablespoons slivered almonds, lightly toasted
3 Tablespoons butter, divided

Blanch green beans in boiling water for about 4 minutes, then remove and refresh with cold water.

Saute mushroom in a large skillet in 2 Tablespoons butter until golden. Add grean beans and reheat, adding the additional 1 Tablespoon butter, if desired. Add slivered almonds, toss lightly, and serve.

Try with: Butterflied Grilled Chicken, paired with your favorite Chianti or Rioja, very lightly chilled!