A simple trick for dressing up green beans is adding orange zest and dried cranberries. And a touch of butter ... of course.

Holiday Green Beans and Cranberries

In a medium saucepan, cook beans in 2 cups boiling water, covered, for 10 to 12 minutes or until tender-crisp.

Drain and transfer to a serving bowl.  Stir in cranberries, butter and orange peel. Serve immediately.

Instead of boiling green beans, steam green beans in 1/2 cup water for 7 to 10 minutes or until tender crisp. Proceed with step 2.

Or saute green beans in 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil or butter until tender crisp. Proceed with step 2, omitting butter.