French String Beans with Sweet Garlic Sauce

1 large head garlic
1 1/2 pounds string beans: a mixture of green and yellow
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Wrap garlic in a large piece of foil to make a pouch, and seal top tightly. Place in a pie tin and roast for 1 hour. Remove from oven. Cut garlic in half horizontally and squeeze out the pulp. Set aside.
3. Trim tips of beans. Wash thoroughly. Using a small sharp knife, cut beans in half lengthwise, following the seam of the bean.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add beans and cook over high heat for 8 minutes, until tender.
5. Meanwhile, heat oil in a small skillet. Add 2 tablespoons garlic pulp and stir until garlic dissolves. Add 3 tablespoons boiling water from the beans and cook for 1 minute, until sauce thickens a little. Set aside.
6. Immediately drain beans in colander, shaking off excess water. Place hot beans in a bowl and toss with garlic sauce that has been briefly reheated. Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to coat beans thoroughly. Serve hot.