How to Cook Fresh Green Beans

The humble green bean is packed with nutrition and is a perennial family pleaser.

Step 1: Select beans Select fresh, crisp beans of equal size for uniform cooking.
Step 2: Wash beans Wash your beans to remove dirt and debris by dipping them in a cool water bath.
Step 3: Cut beans Cut the ends from the beans and slice them into bite-sized pieces or cut them lengthwise.
TIP: One pound of fresh green beans will yield about 2 cups of cooked beans.
Step 4: Bring water to a boil Fill a saucepan with 1 inch of water and bring it to a boil.
Step 5: Fill and place steamer basket Fill the steamer basket with beans, set the basket into the boiling water, and cover. Steam the beans for 3 minutes for crunchy beans and up to 7 minutes for softer beans.
TIP: Top your cooked green beans with grated cheese, basil, dill, garlic, cumin, lemon juice, or almonds.
Step 6: Remove beans Remove the beans from the pan, top to taste, and serve, knowing you are providing a dish with great taste and powerful nutrition.
FACT: Astronauts on board the International Space Station enjoyed eating Chef Emeril Lagasse's gourmet spiced green beans.