Most of the salty flavor in this recipe comes from good olives, so be sure to pick something you love when you're shopping for ingredients. The green beans continue to soak up the brine, melding with the sweetness of the red peppers and the tart, oily olive--if you have the option, make this recipe a day or two before you plan to serve it. Enjoy the colorful array of vegetables adorning your table...and the way the kids dig into their beans with relish.
1 lb. small green beans, trimmed
1 jar (10 oz.) whole roasted red peppers, drained and cut into strips
2 med. shallots, peeled and sliced thinly into rings
1/2 c. Kalamata olives, pitted