GREEN BEAN BAKE

When you crave something more than 'plain old green beans' give this recipe a try. It is also good for holiday meals rather than the traditional 'soup' green bean casserole.

4 tbsp butter, divided
2 tbsp white whole wheat flour or almond meal flour
1 tsp salt, optional
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tsp Splenda or your favorite sweetener
1 tbsp grated onion
3/4 cup low-fat sour cream
2 cans (14.5-oz each) French-style green beans, no salt added 
1 cup part skim mozzarella cheese, grated
3/4 cup cornflakes cereal, crushed

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, Splenda, and onion. Add the sour cream and simmer 1 to 2 minutes or until thickened. Fold in the green beans.

Spray and 1 1/2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Layer the bean mixture and the cheese in the dish, ending with cheese on top.

Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and pour over the top of casserole. Sprinkle the cornflakes over the top.

Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings.

clipart