Steam or saute green beans to retain their fresh, crisp flavor.
Fresh green beans are in-season in late spring through the summer, though some grocery stores will carry them year-round. Overcooked green beans lose their firm texture and become mushy, which is not appetizing to most people. By steaming or sauteing your green beans, you can make sure they are tender and pleasing to eat.
Instructions
Steam
1. Wash the beans thoroughly in cool water, removing any dirt or debris before draining. According to the University of Illinois, "green beans retain color and nutritional value best if they are cooked whole." For best results, cut or break off the stem end only.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
3. Add beans to the pot and boil for one minute.
4. Remove pot from the stove and cover with a lid. The beans will finish cooking from the steam trapped in the pot. Check the tenderness of the bean after three to four minutes. You should be able to pierce the bean with a fork, but it should still be firm.
5. Drain the beans in a colander and transfer to a clean bowl to serve. Add butter or fresh herbs, if desired.
Saute
6. Add 1 tbsp. olive oil or butter to a saute pan. Set the burner to a medium high setting.
7. Add the clean green beans to the pan. Add fresh garlic cloves for extra flavor. Stir occasionally. Cooking time will vary depending on the how many beans you are using. Use a fork or knife to test the bean for tenderness. You should be able to cut through the bean, but it should still be firm.
8. Drain oil and remove garlic. Transfer beans to a clean bowl and serve.
Tags: green beans, beans retain, bowl serve, clean bowl, clean bowl serve, firm Drain, green beans retain