Rinse the green beans under cold water
Trim off the stem ends
Leave beans whole or cut into smaller pieces
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil
Add the green beans to the boiling water
Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until tender-crisp
Drain the beans
Transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking
Heat a skillet with butter or olive oil
Add minced garlic if desired
Add the green beans to the skillet
Toss for 2 to 4 minutes
Season with salt and pepper
Serve warm