Haricots verts [ar-ee-ko-vair'], also known as French green beans, are thin, delicate green beans which cook up tender and delicious.  Nowadays, it's pretty common to find them at supermarkets (including Costco and BJ's). My favorite, beautiful, "Italian" Food Network star, Giada de Laurentis, (see my thoughts on Giada's heritage) is the inspiration behind this recipe.