KitcenTricksLogo

How to Cook and Store Green Beans - Easy Guide

Table of Contents

  • Melissa Collins Author: Melissa Collins
  • Updated: January 10, 2023

Green beans are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, and learning how to cook and store them properly can help you make the most of this versatile vegetable. Whether you prefer steamed, sautéed, or roasted green beans, there are many delicious ways to prepare this tasty ingredient.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to cooking and storing green beans so you can enjoy them at their best.

From blanching and freezing to preserving in vinegar or oil, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to keep them fresh and flavorful. So grab a pan, and let’s get cooking!

The best way to cook fresh green beans

There are several methods to cook fresh green beans that will result in a delicious and nutritious dish. Some of the best methods include:

Steaming:

This is a quick and easy way to cook them while preserving their nutrients. Simply place the beans in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover with a lid. Steam for 5-7 minutes until tender.

Sautéing:

Heat some oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender.

Roasting:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and toss the green beans with a little oil and your desired seasonings. Put them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Grilling:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the green beans onto skewers or place them in a grill basket. Grill for 5-7 minutes until tender, turning occasionally.

Boiling:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the green beans. Boil for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and serve.

The best way to cook frozen green beans

There are several ways to cook frozen green beans that will result in a delicious and nutritious dish. Some of the best methods include:

  1. Steaming: This is a quick and easy way to cook frozen beans while preserving their nutrients. Simply place the beans in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover with a lid. Steam for 7-9 minutes until tender.
  2. Sautéing: Heat some oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the frozen beans and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender.
  3. Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F and toss the frozen beans with a little oil and your desired seasonings. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  4. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread them onto skewers or place them in a grill basket. Grill for 7-9 minutes until tender, turning occasionally.
  5. Boiling: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the frozen green beans. Boil for 5-6 minutes until tender. Drain and serve.

How to cook green beans on the stove?

To cook green beans on the stove, follow these steps:

  1. Wash and trim the green beans, removing any stems or tough ends.
  2. Boil a pot of salted water and add the beans to the pot.
  3. Now boil for 3-4 minutes until tender.
  4. Drain them and transfer them to a serving dish.
  5. Serve the beans with your desired seasonings and toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, or herbs.

Alternatively, you can also sauté or steam the beans on the stove.

To sauté, heat some oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the beans and cook for 4 minutes, frequently stirring, until tender.

To steam, place the beans in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover them with a lid. Steam for 5-7 minutes until tender.

How to cook green beans in an air fryer?

Follow these steps to cook green beans in an air fryer,

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  • Wash and trim them, removing any stems or tough ends.
  • Toss them with a little oil and your desired seasonings.
  • Now place the beans in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  • Cook for 8-10 minutes.
  • Take out from the air fryer and serve with your desired toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, or herbs.

Note: If you are cooking a larger batch of beans, you may need to cook them in two batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

How to cook green beans in the oven?

To cook green beans in the oven, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Wash and trim them, removing any stems or tough ends.
  3. Toss them with a little oil and your desired seasonings.
  4. Spread the beans out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
  6. Now remove from the oven and serve with your desired toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, or herbs.
Note: You can also roast the green beans in a roasting pan.

How do you microwave green beans?

To microwave green beans, follow these steps:

  1. Wash and trim them and remove any stems or tough ends.
  2. Put them in a microwave-safe bowl and add a few tablespoons of water.
  3. Now cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, making sure to leave a small opening for steam to escape.
  4. Microwave the beans on high for 2-3 minutes until tender.
  5. Drain any excess water from the bowl and transfer them to a serving dish.
  6. Serve with your desired seasonings and toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, or herbs.
Note: You can also microwave green beans in a steamer basket or microwave-safe bag. Follow the package instructions for cooking times and methods.

How to cook green beans in a pan?

To cook green beans in a pan, follow these steps:

  1. Wash and trim them, removing any stems or tough ends.
  2. Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the beans to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, frequently stirring, until tender.
  4. Dish out the green beans to a serving dish.
  5. Serve with your desired seasonings and toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, or herbs.
Note: You can also sauté the beans in a pan with other vegetables or proteins, such as onions, garlic, mushrooms, or chicken.

How long do green beans take to cook?

The cooking time for green beans will vary depending on the cooking method and the desired level of tenderness. Here are approximate cooking times for different methods:

  • Steaming: 5-7 minutes for fresh, 7-9 minutes for frozen
  • Sautéing: 4-5 minutes for fresh, 6-8 minutes for frozen
  • Roasting: 15-20 minutes for fresh, 20-25 minutes for frozen
  • Grilling: 5-7 minutes for fresh, 7-9 minutes for frozen
  • Boiling: 3-4 minutes for fresh, 5-6 minutes for frozen

Note: These cooking times are approximate and may vary based on the size and thickness of the beans.

To test for doneness, simply pierce a green bean with a fork or knife. If it is tender and easily pierced, it is done.

Best side dishes for green beans

Green beans are a versatile vegetable. You can pair it with many different side dishes to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are a few ideas for side dishes to serve with beans:

  1. Grilled chicken or steak
  2.  Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
  3. Quinoa or rice
  4. Steamed broccoli or cauliflower
  5. Grilled corn on the cob
  6. Sauteed mushrooms or onions
  7. Garlic bread or rolls
  8. Salad greens with vinaigrette dressing
  9. Baked or mashed potatoes
  10. Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.

Best condiments for green beans

Green beans are a tasty and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed with many condiments to add flavor and interest to your meal. Here are a few ideas for condiments to serve with beans:

  • Butter or margarine
  • Garlic or herb butter
  • Balsamic vinegar or other flavored vinegar
  • Soy sauce or hoisin sauce
  • Dijon mustard or honey mustard
  • Lemon juice or orange juice
  • Nut oils, such as almond or hazelnut oil
  • Pesto or other herb sauces
  • Yogurt or sour cream
  • Blue cheese or feta cheese.

How to store green beans?

Store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and extend their shelf life.
Here are a few tips for storing beans:

  1. Wash and trim to remove any stems or tough ends.
  2. Pat beans dry with a paper towel or clean dishcloth.
  3. Place the beans in a plastic bag or container with a tight-fitting lid.
  4. Seal the bag or container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
  5. If you want to store them for longer, blanch them first. Fill a pot with salted water and boil. Now add the beans. Boil for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Drain the beans and pat them dry. Place them in a plastic bag or container and freeze for up to 6 months.
  6. To use frozen beans, thaw them in the refrigerator or microwave before cooking.
Note: Avoid washing the green beans before storing them, as this can lead to spoilage. Instead, wash them just before cooking or using them.

How long do green beans stay good for?

Green beans will stay in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, stored in a plastic bag or container with a tight-fitting lid. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can blanch them first and then freeze them for up to 6 months. Frozen beans should be thawed in the refrigerator or microwave before cooking.

To test if green beans have gone bad, look for these signs, such as:

  • A slimy texture
  • Off odors
  • Visible mold

If beans have any of these characteristics, they should be discarded.

Can you freeze green beans?

Yes, green beans can be frozen to extend their shelf life and make them more convenient to use in recipes. To freeze, follow these steps:

  • Wash and trim the green beans, removing any stems or tough ends.
  • Fill a pot with salted water and boil. Now add the green beans. Boil for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool.
  • Drain and pat them dry with a paper towel or clean dishcloth.
  • Place them in a plastic bag or container with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Seal the bag or container and freeze for up to 6 months.
 
To use frozen beans, thaw them in the refrigerator or microwave before cooking. You can also cook frozen beans directly, although the cooking time may be slightly longer.

FAQs

What are green beans?

Green beans are a type of vegetable that belongs to the legume family. They are also known as string beans or snap beans.

Are green beans healthy?

Yes, beans are a nutritious choice that is high in vitamins, fiber, and minerals. They are also low in fat and calories.

Can you eat green beans raw?

Yes, green beans can be eaten raw, either on their own or in a salad. They have a crunchy texture with a slightly bitter taste.

How do you cook green beans?

You can cook beans in many ways, including steaming, sautéing, roasting, grilling, and boiling.

Can you freeze green beans?

Yes, we can freeze them to extend their shelf life and make them more convenient to use in recipes.

Discover More Tips

Skip to content