How to Cook Green Beans — 2 Delicious Ways
Time to reclaim their reputation — if prepared like this, green beans taste anything but boring.
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Green beans are a staple for a reason — they're pretty fail-safe. Quick, easy and fairly bland, which is a good thing. You can dress them up all sorts of ways. Ditch the frozen bag this time around, and go fresh.
WATCH: How to Cook Green Beans
Watch this easy-to-follow demo to help you decide if blanching or sautéing is the way to go (both are worth trying!). Either way, these beans add crunch to any meal. Pair with turkey and mashed potatoes for a big holiday feast or with chicken for a quick weeknight dinner.
What you'll need:
• Sharp knife or kitchen scissors ($13, amazon.com)
• Large pot
• Colander
• Large bowl
• 2 lb. green beans
• 1 tbsp. salt
Step 1: Prepare Your Beans
Cut off the ends of the green beans with kitchen scissors or a sharp knife. Depending on their size, leave the beans whole, cut them into 1-inch pieces or slice them lengthwise for French-cut beans.
Step 2: Boil
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tbsp. salt and green beans. Cover the pot and cook for 2 to 4 minutes, until beans are tender.
Step 3: Drain, Then Shock
Once tender, drain green beans in a strainer. Immediately place beans in a large bowl of ice water — to shock them and stop the cooking. Let them sit in the ice water bath for 2 to 3 minutes and gently stir to make sure that they are evenly coated with water.
Step 4: Serve Them Your Way
It's up to you: Serve the beans right away with your favorite dip or as a side, mix them in a salad or keep them in the refrigerator in a resealable bag until you're ready to eat them.
PRO TIP: Blanched green beans last 3 days in the fridge.
Want More Flavor? Sautée Them
Follow steps 1 through 5. Then add 1 tbsp. olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 tsp. salt and green beans to a large pan. Cook for 1 minute. Remove beans from pan and place on a serving dish. Dress up the beans with lemon zest and 1/3 cup sliced almonds.
PRO TIP: Trade orange zest instead of lemon for an extra citrusy boost.
More Recipes:
• Green Bean Casserole Ideas for All Your Big Family Meals
• All the Best Recipes Starring Green Beans
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