Green Beans are March’s Harvest of the Month. When we think of green beans, we often think of mashed potatoes and meat – it’s a comfort food. Green Beans are part of the legume family, with more than 130 varieties. They are the third most popular garden plant behind tomatoes and peppers, because they are easy to grow and care for. They are sometimes called snap beans or string beans. Green beans are a perfect, healthy side dish and are considered a favorite.
How to Buy and Store: When choosing which type of green beans to purchase, it is always important to remember that fresh is the healthiest option. Green beans can be bought in many different forms including fresh, canned or frozen. When selecting fresh green beans, make sure to choose ones that are bright green and free of blemishes, such as dark spots. They should also be firm and not flimsy. They should be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag and used within one week of purchasing. If you are going for the canned option, make sure to select cans that are free of damage and dents to assure proper food safety.
Nutrition and Health Benefits: Green beans are a great heart-healthy option. They do not contain cholesterol and have about 3 grams of fiber per serving. The fiber assists with lowering cholesterol levels in the body. Green beans are also low in sodium. Like many other vegetable options, green beans are a great source of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, thiamin, and niacin. They can aid in digestive and bowel health as well.
Cooking Green Beans: Green bean are super simple to prepare, with a variety of simple options. The easiest option, of course, is eating raw green beans for a healthy snack. Green beans can be steamed, roasted, grilled, fried, or even pickled! Canned green beans can quickly be heated on stock top or microwave-steamer bags make it fast and easy to steam a delicious side of green beans for your meal. Green beans are also great to chop up and add to casseroles and soups.
Making it Kid-Friendly: Raw green beans dipped in ranch or hummus are great for the kids. Get the whole family involved and have the kids snap off each end of the fresh green beans before preparing. Green beans are easy for kids to grow in the garden or as a container plant. It is even more fun for kids to eat green beans when they can grow, pick, and prepare themselves.
Enjoy Green Bean this March as the Harvest of the Month!