beans, beans the musical fruit :)

The girls and I are just sitting here in the livingroom in front of the fireplace. They played outside for a little while, and now it's getting cloudy and cooler. A good time to come inside, and they are playing so quietly and nicely with each other. We have the Christmas tree up (with just the lights so far) in the corner of the room, and the ambiance is cozy. I'm sitting here thinking about Thanksgiving and our menu, and I'm getting hungry.

Obviously, there will be turkey and my mom's stuffing (the best!).. I think I'll ask my aunt to bring her cranberry salad. Sweet potatoes.. mashed potatoes.. mmm.. and green bean casserole! It's so good, I thought I would share the recipe. It was passed onto me by 'shini many moons ago, and it has become a tradition in our house ever since. A great recipe if you're not counting calories!

Before I share the recipe: if you have recipes to share, please pass them on! I love new ideas, and love the stories behind them (if there is one).

On with the beans:

The Best Green Bean Casserole Ever

2 - cans green beans
1 - can sliced water chestnuts
1 - can cream of mushroom soup
3/4 - cup milk
1 - 8 oz. bag shredded cheese (I use the Mexican style)
worcestershire sauce to taste (I use about 1/2 Tbsp)
pepper to taste

1 1/3 - cup french fried onions, divided

• Preheat oven to 350°F

Mix everything together except 2/3 cup french fried onions. Pour into 11 x 7 baking dish. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup french fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will be boiling hot when it's taken out of the oven, so let it rest for 5 minutes or so before serving.

• I usually double this recipe and bake in a 9 x 13 baking dish.
  
  
• You can cut down on the saltiness by using unsalted beans and low sodium mushroom soup. No worries, it will still be plenty salty (not bland at all!) from the french fried onions, worcestershire sauce and cheese.

Enjoy!