First, pull out a cast iron skillet and turn the heat to medium. Grab a handful of green beans per person (grab more than you think; they shrink a surprising amount). Wash them and cut them into 1 - 1 1/2 inch bits. Then mince some garlic (1 clove per person or so, depending on your taste). Melt a healthy amount of butter in the skillet and then add the green beans and garlic. Sprinkle a good amount of salt and pepper over the green beans. Cook for a few minutes on medium, then turn up to medium high if you, like me, like your green beans a little bit toasty on the sides. Or, for softer green beans, put in a tiny amount of water and cover the pan for a few minutes. The garlic should end up very well browned and crispy, but not burnt. Eat them with some soup or pasta or by themselves.
