Steamed green beans
This simple steamed green beans recipe highlights the beans' natural flavor with a touch of saltiness. It's a quick and easy side dish that can complement any meal.
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 2 min
Ingredients:
1 cup water1 tsp salt
4 cups green beans
Elevate your green bean game with this straightforward yet delicious steamed green beans recipe. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, these beans are infused with a subtle saltiness that enhances their natural flavor. With only three ingredients, this recipe is both simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Instructions:
- Rinse the green beans under cold running water.
- Trim off the ends if necessary.
- In a large pot, add 1 cup of water.
- Place a steamer basket inside the pot.
3. Add Salt:
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt into the water. The salt will help to season the steam as it cooks the beans.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the green beans to the steamer basket.
- Cover the pot with a lid to trap the steam.
- Steam the green beans for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. You may adjust the time based on your personal preference for texture.
- Carefully remove the lid (beware of the hot steam) and check if the beans are cooked to your liking. They should be bright green and tender.
- Remove the steamed green beans from the steamer basket.
- You can season them further with a pinch of salt, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked steamed green beans as a nutritious and tasty side dish. Whether paired with a hearty main course or served on their own, these beans are sure to become a staple in your household. The simplicity of this recipe allows the fresh flavor of the green beans to shine through, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Steamed green beans FAQ:
Steam the green beans for about 5-7 minutes. They should be tender yet still crisp. You can adjust the time slightly based on your preferred texture.
A large pot is recommended for steaming green beans, ensuring there is enough space for a steamer basket and to allow the beans to steam evenly.
Store leftover steamed green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat quickly in a microwave or on the stovetop.
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. However, you may need to steam them for an additional 1-2 minutes longer to achieve the desired tenderness.
If you prefer to avoid salt, you can use herbs or a salt-free seasoning blend to add flavor. Alternatively, a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking can enhance the beans' taste.
Tips:
- Use fresh green beans for the best results, as they offer a crisp texture and vibrant color.
- Trim the ends of the green beans before cooking to ensure even cooking and a more polished presentation.
- Feel free to adjust the salt quantity to suit your taste preferences. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice for additional flavor.
- For a bit of crunch, consider adding toasted almonds or sesame seeds as a topping.
- To preserve the bright green color of the beans, immediately transfer them to an ice bath after steaming before serving.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 30kcal
Protein 1.83g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 2.70g
Sugar 3.26g
Fat 0.22g
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