Selecting

When selecting green beans look for long, straight beans that are free of decay and rust spots. Green beans should snap easily when bent.

Storing

When selecting green beans look for long, straight beans that are free of decay and rust spots. Green beans should snap easily when bent.

Preparation

Fresh green beans should be rinsed and trimmed at both ends before use. Green beans can be eaten raw and make a great addition to a vegetable tray. Steamed, blanched, microwaved and stir frying are great ways to cook green beans. Green beans require very little time and overcooking makes them limp and depletes their nutrient value. Leave green beans whole for cooking or cut crosswise or diagonally for French cut. Add green beans into soups, stews, salads and casseroles for added flavor and texture

Nutrition Information

Fresh green beans make a generally good nutritional contribution to the diet, although they are not outstanding in any particular nutrient but are very low in calories.