Great friends and old neighbors of ours stopped by for a visit at the lake house this past weekend.
These are our friends with the fantastic garden, and they brought an abundance of produce with them!
Tomatoes, beets (more about them tomorrow) basil, an eggplant and string beans.
We had planned a simple lunch by the water.
Cold cuts, cheeses, warm baguette, a simple tomato salad.
We have to save our energy for swimming, boating and various water sports you know.
Those string beans were really needed.
What a super addition to our meat/cheese/bread laden lunch.
A quick steam for those beauties then a toss in a garlicky vinaigrette.
Sometimes simple is just enough.

Start by washing and clipping ends of beans. Set into steamer basket and steam over boiling water until just crisp.

Meanwhile in a large serving bowl add 3 Tbs olive oil, 2 Tbs red wine vinegar and 2 garlic cloves passed through press.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Toss well and serve with bread, cheese, cold cuts and of course a nice chilled white wine………..

Kitchen tip:
For that just baked crisp crust and warm interior.
Place baguette or any artisanal bread from grocery into a 400 degree oven for 4-5 minutes before serving.
Works for gluten free baguette as well.