What are green beans?

Green beans are a type of legume, also known as string beans or snap beans. They are typically eaten as a vegetable and are characterized by their long, thin green pods that contain small, tender seeds. They are commonly used in many different types of dishes and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

What types of green been are available?

There are several types of green beans available, including:

• Bush beans: These are the most common type of green bean and are known for their compact growth habit and early maturity. They are easy to grow and can be planted in small spaces.
• Pole beans: These beans require a trellis or support to grow on, but they produce a higher yield than bush beans. They take longer to mature but can be harvested over a longer period of time.
• Wax beans: These are a type of yellow bean that are similar to green beans in taste and texture. They are often used in salads and stir-fries.
• French beans: Also known as haricots verts, these are a type of green bean that is thinner and more delicate than the common green bean. They are often used in gourmet dishes and are a popular ingredient in French cuisine.
• Runner beans: They are a type of green beans that are grown for their large, flat pods that contain large seeds. They are often used as a substitute for snap beans and are commonly used in salads and stir-fries.
• Romano beans: They are also known as Italian flat beans, they are flatter, wider, and have a more intense flavor than regular green beans.

These are just a few examples, there might be more types of green beans that are specific to certain regions.

How do you cook green beans?

There are several ways to cook green beans, including steaming, boiling, sautéing, and roasting. Here are a few common methods:

• Steaming: This is a quick and easy way to cook green beans. Simply fill a pot with a few inches of water and bring it to a boil. Place the green beans in a steamer basket or colander and set it over the boiling water. Cover the pot and steam the beans for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender.
• Boiling: This is another simple method for cooking green beans. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender. Drain the beans and season them with butter, lemon juice, or your desired seasoning.
• Sautéing: Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender. You can add garlic, onions, or other herbs and spices for added flavor.
• Roasting: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast the green beans for 12-15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned.
• Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the green beans for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are tender and slightly charred.

Each method will give a different texture and flavor, you can try different methods to find which one you like the most.

What are some good dishes that use green beans?

Green beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, here are a few examples:

• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish is made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions. It’s a popular side dish for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• Green Bean Salad: This dish is made by blanching green beans and then mixing them with vinaigrette or other dressings, like lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. The salad can be garnished with crumbled cheese, chopped nuts, or chopped herbs.
• Stir-Fried Green Beans: This dish is made by sautéing green beans with garlic and ginger, and adding soy sauce, oyster sauce, or other seasonings. It’s a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, but can also be made with different flavors from different cuisines.
• Green Bean Gremolata: This dish is made by blanching green beans and then toss them with a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, parsley, and olive oil. This dish is perfect as a side dish or a salad.
• Green Bean and Potato Curry: This dish is made by sautéing green beans, potatoes, and onions with spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander. It’s a popular dish in Indian cuisine, it can be made with different flavors and can be served with rice, naan or roti.
• Green beans with Almond and garlic: This dish is made by sautéing green beans with garlic and almond slivers, and can be seasoned with salt and pepper or soy sauce.

These are just a few examples, green beans can be used in many different ways, you can use them in soups, pastas, sandwiches and more.

Selected Recipes

What can you do with lamb and quinoa?

Pan Fry • Lamb • Quinoa • Dill • Garlic • Green Beans


• Try this Pulled Shoulder of Lamb, Quinoa, Broad Bean, and Dill. Broad beans are another name for fava beans, so maybe you'll want a nice chianti with this?