Hoisin Sesame Roasted Green Beans

Sometimes the simplest concoctions yield the most spectacular results. Like these tender-crisp green beans, roasted in a sweet and salty blend of hoisin sauce and peanut oil. A quick sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds and you have green beans like you've never had before. And you'll be happy.

If you think you're "not a green bean fan", you need to check yourself. You might in fact be; if not before, you will be now. Roasting green beans brings out their inherent sweetness, and when you partner that with salty hoisin.... well, it's life-altering.

If you're sitting back right now (laughing), thinking, "Yeah right Robin, life-altering green beans?", then... well you probably should be (laughing, that is)! But you know how serious I am about my food, so when I make a pronouncement, I MEAN IT. Trust me, you will be licking that skillet clean, as will everyone else noshing with you.

Hoisin Sesame Roasted Green Beans
Note: If you have peanut allergy issues, leave the peanut oil out, or substitute 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil).

1/2 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce (sold near the soy sauce and other Asian sauces)
1 tablespoon peanut oil
Salt and ground black pepper
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (you can purchase them already toasted; or place them in a dry skillet over low heat for a few minutes)
Fresh cilantro leaves for serving, optional

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Rinse the green beans and pat dry.
In a large ovenproof skillet, or on a sheet pan lined with foil, combine the hoisin sauce and peanut oil. Add the green beans and toss to coat. Spread out in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15 minutes, until golden brown and tender.Top with cilantro leaves (if using) and serve.
Serves 4