Cooking green beans is a straightforward yet delightful culinary endeavor. These vibrant, crisp pods are transformed into a tender and flavorful side dish through a simple process. Begin by washing and trimming the ends of the beans, then blanch them in boiling salted water until they turn bright green and slightly tender, typically taking 2-3 minutes. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, preserving their vibrant color. Finally, sauté the blanched green beans in butter or olive oil with garlic, shallots, or your preferred seasonings until they’re tender but still retain a delightful crunch. This versatile vegetable can be customized to suit various tastes and makes for a delectable addition to any meal.
How to cook green beans
Green beans, also known as string beans or snap beans, are edible pods of the common bean plant, scientifically named Phaseolus vulgaris. They are a popular vegetable in many cuisines around the world. Green beans are typically long and slender, with a crisp texture and a vibrant green color. They can be eaten fresh, steamed, boiled, sautéed, or included in various dishes like salads, stir-fries, and casseroles. Green beans are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.
Ingredients
- pound (450g) fresh green beans
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon juice or grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim the ends. You can leave them whole or cut them into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook; you want them to remain crisp.
- Immediately transfer the blanched green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps retain their vibrant color and texture.
- In a skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic if you like, and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Drain the green beans from the ice water and add them to the skillet. Toss to coat them in the butter or oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and slightly caramelized.
- Transfer the cooked green beans to a serving dish. You can squeeze some lemon juice over them for a fresh citrusy flavor or sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Serve your delicious sautéed green beans as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Video
Notes
You can customize this recipe by adding herbs, nuts, or other seasonings to suit your taste.
Nutrition
Serving: 25g
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