Steaming Green Beans: A Quick, Healthy Cooking Method

Steaming green beans is a simple, healthy, and delicious way to cook this versatile vegetable. Not only does steaming preserve the vibrant colour and crisp texture of the beans, but it is also faster and healthier than boiling, as fewer nutrients are lost in the water. To steam green beans, all you need is a pot with a tight-fitting lid, an inch or so of water, and a steamer basket (although this is not essential). Follow these simple steps and you'll have a tasty side dish ready in minutes!

How to steam green beans without a steamer basket

Steaming is a great way to cook green beans, as it maintains their vibrant colour and keeps their nutritional value. Here are some methods to steam green beans without a steamer basket:

The Double Boiler Method

If you have a saucepan and a heatproof bowl that fits snugly on top, you can create a makeshift steamer using the double boiler method. Simply fill the saucepan with water, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom of the bowl when placed on top. Place the green beans in the bowl, cover with a lid or aluminium foil, and let the steam cook the beans for 5-7 minutes or until tender.

The Microwave Method

Place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water (about 2 tablespoons). Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, depending on your microwave's wattage and the desired level of tenderness.

The Stir-Fry Method

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the green beans and sauté for a couple of minutes until they start to soften. Add a splash of water, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the beans steam for about 5 minutes or until tender.

The Colander Method

Add an inch of water to a large pan and place a metal or heat-proof colander or strainer on top, ensuring it fits under the lid. Place the green beans in the colander, cover the pan, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the steam to cook the beans until tender.

The Pie Pan Method

Poke holes in a disposable metal pie pan. Add an inch of water to a pan large enough to fit the pie pan. Place the pan upside down on top of the water, then put the green beans on top and secure the lid.

The Oven Method

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the green beans tightly in aluminium foil and place them on a baking sheet. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender.

How to trim green beans

Trimming green beans is a simple task that can be done in a few easy steps. Firstly, grab a handful of beans, around 15 to 20 beans, and place them on a cutting board. Make a uniform pile with the beans lined up lengthwise. It doesn't matter if they are facing different ways, as you will be cutting off both ends.

Next, line up all the ends of the beans against the edge of your knife. Hold the beans in one hand and cut off the ends in one quick motion. Then, flip the beans over and line up the other ends against the knife blade. Cut off these ends, and you're done! You can also cut the beans into bite-sized pieces if you wish, but this is optional.

If you are preparing a large quantity of green beans, there are a few alternative methods you can try. Some people suggest using kitchen scissors or shears to trim the ends, which can be done by simply grabbing a handful of beans and snipping away. Another option is to use a sharp knife to slice through the ends of the beans while holding them in the air. You can also try lining up the beans in rows and trimming them that way, without flipping them over.

Remember, you only need to trim the stem end of the green beans. The pointed end is tender and can be left as is.

How to season steamed green beans

Steaming is a great way to cook green beans, and there are several ways to season them. Here's a detailed guide on how to season steamed green beans:

Preparation:

Before steaming, wash the green beans and trim the stem ends. You can leave them whole or cut them into halves. If you want to speed up the cooking process, cut the beans into smaller pieces.

Steaming:

To steam the green beans, you'll need a steamer basket or a colander placed over a pot of boiling water. Make sure the water level is about one inch deep, and bring it to a boil. Place the beans in the steamer basket or colander, cover, and steam for 3-7 minutes, depending on your desired level of tenderness. Aim for a vibrant green color and a tender texture, avoiding overcooking, which can make them mushy and drab.

Seasoning Options:

• Classic: Toss the steamed green beans with melted butter, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Lemon and Zest: Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the beans, then sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. For extra flavor, add lemon zest.
• Garlic and Herb: Mince or slice some garlic and cook it in olive oil until fragrant. Toss the steamed beans in this mixture, adding chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Asian-inspired: Drizzle the beans with sesame oil and soy sauce, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
• Cheesy: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese over the steamed beans.
• Nutty: Toss the beans with chopped and toasted nuts, such as slivered almonds.

These are just a few ideas, but you can get creative and experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and ingredients to find your favorite way to season steamed green beans.

How to serve steamed green beans

Steamed green beans are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to serve them:

Choosing the Right Green Beans:

Look for green beans that are uniformly green, plump, and free of spots and blemishes. Smaller beans are usually more tender and sweet than larger ones. Green beans are available year-round, but they are at their peak freshness from early summer to early fall.

Cooking Method:

Steaming is a simple and healthy way to cook green beans, preserving their vibrant colour, crisp texture, and nutritional value. To steam, place the beans in a steamer basket over boiling water for 4-7 minutes, depending on your desired level of tenderness. You can also steam them in the microwave or use a colander placed over a pot of boiling water. Just ensure the colander doesn't touch the water.

Seasonings and Flavours:

The beauty of steamed green beans is that they can be seasoned in countless ways to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Classic: Toss with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
• Lemon and Zest: Add lemon juice and zest for brightness.
• Garlic and Herb: Combine with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or thyme), and olive oil.
• Asian-inspired: Drizzle with sesame oil, soy sauce, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
• Cheese: Grate some Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on top.
• Nuts: Add slivered toasted almonds or other chopped and toasted nuts.
• Vinegar: A splash of white wine vinegar or rice vinegar can add a tangy twist.

Main Course Pairings:

Steamed green beans go well with almost any main course. Here are some suggestions:

• Salmon: Baked, grilled, or broiled salmon.
• Shrimp: Sauteed shrimp, shrimp kabobs, or grilled shrimp.
• Chicken: Grilled chicken, pan-seared chicken, chicken piccata, Tuscan chicken, or lemon garlic chicken.
• Meatless Mains: Vegetarian meatloaf, stuffed peppers, or eggplant Parmesan.
• Meat Dishes: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, roasted pork tenderloin, or BBQ chicken.

Presentation:

For a more dramatic presentation, leave the green beans whole. You can also add a dollop of compound butter made with fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro lime, or lemon thyme for a gourmet touch.

How to steam frozen green beans

Steaming frozen green beans is a simple and healthy way to cook this versatile vegetable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

What You Need:

• Frozen green beans (look for French green beans or haricots verts for the best flavour and texture)
• Water
• Saucepan with a lid
• Steamer basket (optional)
• Butter or oil
• Salt and pepper, or other seasonings of your choice

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Place water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium to high heat. The amount of water will depend on whether you are using a steamer basket. If you are, make sure there is enough water in the saucepan without it touching the steamer basket or the beans.
• While you wait for the water to boil, prepare the green beans. You can snap off the stem ends and cut the beans in half, or leave them whole.
• Once the water is boiling, place the steamer basket in the saucepan, if using one. Place the prepared green beans in the steamer basket or directly into the boiling water.
• Cover the saucepan and reduce the heat to medium. Let the green beans steam for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how tender you like them. Aim for a vibrant green colour and a tender but crisp texture.
• When the green beans are cooked to your liking, remove them from the heat. If you used a steamer basket, discard the water in the saucepan. Place the beans back in the saucepan and add butter or oil. Stir until the butter has melted or the oil has coated the beans.
• Season the green beans with salt and pepper, or other seasonings of your choice. Some suggested seasonings include lemon zest and juice, sesame oil and sesame seeds, onion powder, Italian seasoning, oregano, fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, or garlic.
• Serve the steamed green beans as a side dish or add them to your favourite recipes, such as salads or casseroles.

Tips:

• You can also steam frozen green beans in the microwave. Place the beans in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water, cover, and cook on high in short intervals until they are tender.
• Steaming is a healthier alternative to boiling as it preserves more nutrients and requires less cooking time.
• If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a metal colander or strainer, or poke holes in a disposable metal pie pan and place it upside down in the saucepan.

Frequently asked questions