How To Cook Fresh Green Beans Healthy

Introducing Green Beans

Green beans are a healthy and delicious vegetable that can be cooked in many ways. Also known as French beans, string beans, or snap beans, green beans are a part of the legume family and are easy to cook and delicious to eat. Green beans are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber, folate, and iron.

Choosing Fresh Green Beans

Look for green beans that are uniformly colored and have smooth, taut skin. The beans should be relatively firm and have a good snap when you bend them. Avoid green beans that are wilted, yellowing, or have soft spots. Fresh green beans should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in a paper bag or a perforated plastic bag, and should be used within a few days.

Preparing Green Beans for Cooking

Before cooking, rinse the green beans in cold water and trim off the ends. Snap off the ends of the beans, or cut them off with a knife, depending on how you plan to cook them. If you plan to cook the beans whole, snap off the ends and leave them whole. If you are going to cut them into pieces, cut them into 1-inch pieces. If you are using canned or frozen green beans, rinse them with cold water and drain them before cooking.

Healthy Ways to Cook Green Beans

Green beans can be cooked in many different ways, some of which are healthier than others. Boiling green beans is one of the healthiest and easiest ways to prepare them. Boil a pot of water and add a pinch of salt and the green beans. Simmer the beans for five to eight minutes until they are tender. Drain the beans and season with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Steaming Green Beans

Steaming is another healthy way to cook green beans. Fill a pot with an inch or two of water and place a steamer basket in the pot. Bring the water to a boil, add the green beans to the basket, cover the pot, and steam for about five minutes. Once the beans are cooked, season with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Sautéing Green Beans

Sautéing is a great way to add flavor to green beans. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the green beans and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the green beans for five to eight minutes, until they are tender. Serve the green beans hot, with extra salt and pepper to taste.