Here’s a simple saute that is well suited for a special meal and versatile enough for your everyday repertoire.

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 pound green beans, trimmed
1/2 cup water
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt & freshly ground pepper to taste

Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add green beans and cook, stirring often, until seared in spots, 2 to 3 minutes. Add water, cover, reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes for tender-crisp or 6 minutes for tender. Push the beans to the side; add the remaining 1 teaspoon oil and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add tomatoes, stir everything together and cook until the tomatoes begin to break down, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in vinegar, salt and pepper.