Steaming Green Beans: Quick Microwave Method

Steaming green beans in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to cook them, with the process taking between 4 to 7 minutes. It is also a healthier option as microwaving helps to preserve vitamins and minerals. To steam green beans in the microwave, place the washed and trimmed beans in a microwave-safe bowl with a small amount of water and cover with a plate or plastic wrap. Microwave for the desired amount of time and then carefully remove the cover, as the steam will be hot. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

How to prepare green beans for microwaving

Preparing green beans for microwaving is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Wash and rinse the green beans under running water. Do not dry them.
• Trim the green beans. You can snap off the tough, knobby ends with your fingers or use a knife to cut them off. You can also buy pre-trimmed green beans if you want to save time.
• Place the beans in a microwave-safe bowl or dish. A glass or ceramic dish works well.
• Add a small amount of water to the bowl, just enough to cover the bottom by about 1/8 inch (2-3 tablespoons). You can also add a tablespoon of butter, a pinch of salt, and some garlic or garlic powder for extra flavour.
• Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid, plastic wrap, a plate, or a paper towel. Make sure to vent the plastic wrap if using.
• Microwave on high power for 4-6 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For crisp-tender beans, cook for 4-5 minutes. For softer, more tender beans, cook for 5-6 minutes.
• Carefully remove the cover, being mindful of the hot steam. Drain any excess liquid.
• Toss the beans with butter, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings or ingredients, such as lemon zest, almonds, or vinegar, for extra flavour.

Your green beans are now ready to be enjoyed as a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish!

How long to microwave green beans

Microwaving green beans is a quick and convenient way to cook them, and it can help to preserve vitamins and minerals better than other cooking methods. Here's a step-by-step guide on how long to microwave green beans and some tips to achieve the best results.

Step 1: Preparation

Start by rinsing your fresh green beans under running water. You don't need to dry them off completely. Then, trim off any rough ends. You can either snap off the ends with your fingers or use a knife. If you prefer a quicker option, you can also look for pre-trimmed fresh green beans in the produce section of your grocery store.

Step 2: Choose Your Container

Place the prepared green beans into a microwave-safe bowl or baking dish. Ceramic casserole dishes or glass Pyrex dishes work well. Add a small amount of water to the container, just enough to cover the bottom by about 1/8 inch or 2-3 tablespoons. You can also add a tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning.

Step 3: Cover and Microwave

Cover the container with a microwave-safe lid, plate, or paper towel. Avoid using plastic wrap, as it can be unsafe in microwaves. Place the container in the microwave and cook for 4 to 6 minutes. The cooking time will depend on your desired texture and the power of your microwave. For crisp-tender beans, microwave for 4 minutes. If you prefer softer beans, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remember that food continues to cook after microwaving, so it's better to start with a shorter time and add more time if needed.

Step 4: Serve or Store

After microwaving, carefully remove the cover, as the steam will be very hot. Drain any remaining liquid, and add a tablespoon of butter to the bowl. Toss the green beans to coat them evenly, and then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, or store them in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Tips for Best Results:

• Always use microwave-safe containers and avoid using metal dishes.
• Be cautious when removing the cover after microwaving to avoid getting burned by the hot steam.
• Start with the shortest recommended cooking time and add more time in small increments if needed.
• Choose green beans that are plump, green, and free of spots for the best results.

How to serve steamed green beans

Steamed green beans are a quick, simple, and delicious side dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and serve steamed green beans:

Preparing the Green Beans

Start by rinsing the fresh green beans under running water. You don't need to dry them off completely. Then, trim off any rough ends. You can either snap off the ends with your fingers or use a knife. If you prefer a quicker option, look for pre-trimmed fresh green beans in a bag from the grocery store.

Steaming the Green Beans

Place the green beans into a microwave-safe bowl or casserole dish. Add a small amount of water, just enough to cover the bottom of the container by about 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch. You can also add a tablespoon of butter, a pinch of salt, and some pepper and garlic powder to taste. Cover the container with plastic wrap, a microwave-safe cover, a plate, or a paper towel. Make sure to vent the plastic wrap if using. Microwave on high power for 4 to 6 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For crisp-tender beans, cook for 4 minutes, and for softer beans, cook for 5 to 6 minutes.

Serving the Steamed Green Beans

Once the green beans are steamed to your liking, carefully remove them from the microwave, as the steam will be very hot. Drain any remaining liquid and add a tab of butter to the bowl. Toss the beans to coat them evenly, and then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. You can also try some of these simple yet delicious ways to jazz up your steamed green beans:

• Toss them with a splash of rice wine vinegar, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, and some sesame seeds.
• Sprinkle over the zest of a lemon and some toasted slivered almonds.
• Serve topped with toasted panko breadcrumbs.
• Chill the beans in an ice bath, then toss them with balsamic vinaigrette, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Top with halved grape tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.
• Sauté a clove of minced garlic in olive oil, add chili flakes to taste, and then add the cooked beans and toss to coat.
• Serve coated lightly in a spoonful or two of pesto.
• Toss with chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil) and chopped toasted walnuts.
• Squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top, or sauté in some ghee, garlic, and lemon zest.
• Sauté in some coconut aminos with red pepper flakes.

Steamed green beans are versatile and can be served with a variety of main dishes, including roasted chicken, grilled steaks, baked pork chops, mashed potatoes, grilled potato wedges, or sweet potato mash. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious side dish!

How to store cooked green beans

Cooked green beans can be stored in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator. They should last about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, microwave them for about 1 minute or use the reheat setting until hot.

If you want to keep the green beans for longer, you can freeze them. First, you need to blanch the beans by boiling them for a few minutes and then allowing them to cool. Then, place them in a resealable plastic freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 8 to 10 months.

When it comes to storing fresh green beans, it is recommended to not wash them before storing as the moisture can cause mould to form. Instead, use your hand to wipe off any dirt or debris. Place a paper towel in a large resealable freezer bag and then put the green beans in the bag. Push as much air out of the bag as possible before sealing it. Refrigerate the beans for up to 1 week.

The benefits of steaming green beans

Steaming green beans in the microwave is a quick, simple, and convenient way to cook them. It is also a healthy cooking method, as it helps to preserve vitamins and minerals better than other cooking techniques. Here are some benefits of steaming green beans:

Quick and Easy

Steaming green beans in the microwave is a fast and straightforward process. It eliminates the need for pots, pans, or a stove, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a quick side dish. The preparation is simple: wash and trim the beans, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water, cover, and cook for 4 to 6 minutes.

Nutrient Preservation

Microwaving green beans for a short period helps retain their nutritional value. The shorter cooking time and small amount of water used in microwave steaming minimize nutrient loss. Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and folic acid, and steaming helps preserve these nutrients.

Tender and Delicious

Steaming green beans in the microwave results in tender beans with a little crisp bite left. The steaming process cooks the beans evenly, ensuring they retain their beautiful bright green color and delicious taste.

Versatile

Microwaved green beans can be served in a variety of ways. You can toss them with butter, salt, and pepper, or add flavor with fried garlic. They can be served as a simple side dish or paired with proteins like chicken, pork, or fish.

Healthy Option

Green beans are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and micronutrients. They are low in fat, cholesterol, sodium, and sugar. Steaming is a healthy cooking method that enhances the nutritional benefits of green beans, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

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