I've been trying to re-create this recipe at home for months. They're the perfect green beans with so much flavor. Now that green beans are fresh and beautiful at the local markets, I really want a new way to make them as a side for grilling.

Rachael K. Houser, St. Louis

Modesto's menu offers a variety of small plates, from mussels and scallops to beans and mushrooms, with a focus on Spanish cuisine and tapas.

"My style is to create healthy dishes using traditional Spanish ingredients," said executive chef Grace Dinsmoor. "Traditionally green beans would be dressed with ham, garlic and onions." She lightened up her version by omitting the ham and employing a sherry-vinegar reduction that adds rich flavor and a touch of sweet-sour interest.

Dinsmoor is self-taught in the tapas style of cooking and presentation. "I draw inspiration from Spain through my travels," she said.

The tapas menu begs to be shared among friends, with each dish serving enough for two to four people to sample. Spanish cheese, hams and sausage figure prominently, along with olives, potatoes and peppers. And, of course, a choice of several versions of the rice dish paella is prominent on the menu.