Holiday Green Beans

Cook beans in a large pot of boiling salted water until crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove beans from the boiling water using a slotted spoon and place them in an ice bath to stop cooking. You can do this the day ahead. If you do, just wrap the beans in paper towels and store in a large plastic bag in the refrigerator. Then bring to room temperature the day of serving.

In a medium skillet over medium heat add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook shallots and garlic until softened. Add vinegar, Dijon and dry mustard and mix to coat everything. Whisk in the remaining oil, season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside. This can be made the day ahead and stored in refrigerator. If so, just bring it back to room temperature the day of serving, whisking to combine everything when you are ready.

Toss beans and dressing in a large bowl. Sprinkle bacon, cheese and cranberries on top and serve at room temperature.