How Long to Boil Green Beans

User Reviews

5

18 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    5 mins

  • Total Time

    10 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    62 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    American

How Long to Boil Green Beans

This guide explains how to boil fresh green beans to achieve a crisp-tender texture. It involves boiling the beans in salted water for about 4 to 5 minutes, with attention to checking them after 3 minutes to prevent overcooking. The recipe includes a simple serving suggestion of butter and salt to enhance the flavor. The method retains the beans' natural crunch and color, ideal for a straightforward and classic vegetable side.

Description

How Long to Boil Green Beans shows how to prepare green beans by boiling them in salted water until they are crisp-tender. The process starts by bringing water to a boil with salt, trimming the green beans, then boiling them for 4 to 5 minutes while checking for doneness early to avoid mushiness. After draining, the beans are served with optional butter and extra salt to taste.

This method preserves the beans' vibrant green color and fresh snap, making them a simple and reliable side dish. The butter adds a smooth richness that complements the natural flavor without overpowering it.

You can prep the beans ahead by washing and trimming them, store leftovers refrigerated for several days, and even freeze cooked beans for longer storage. Reheating can be done gently on the stovetop or in a microwave.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 lb. green beans fresh
  • 1 tsp. salt plus more for serving
  • 1-2 Tbsp. butter optional

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil along with the salt.
  2. While the water is heating up, snap off the stems of the green beans by hand or trim and remove the ends with a knife.
  3. Carefully add the green beans to the water using a slotted spoon and boil for about 4-5 minutes, or until crisp tender. Begin checking on them after 3 minutes to ensure they do not overcook.
  4. Drain the green beans in a colander in the sink. Serve with butter and additional salt, to taste. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Trim and wash the green beans up to 2-3 days ahead for convenience.
  • Store cooked green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
  • Freeze cooked green beans by laying them flat before transferring to a freezer bag; good for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
  • Serve with a pat of butter and sprinkle of salt to enhance flavor.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 62kcal (3%) Carbohydrates 8g (3%) Protein 2g (4%) Fat 3g (5%) Saturated Fat 2g (10%) Polyunsaturated Fat 1g (6%) Monounsaturated Fat 1g (5%) Trans Fat 1g (50%) Cholesterol 8mg (3%) Sodium 511mg (21%) Potassium 240mg (5%) Fiber 3g (12%) Sugar 4g (8%) Vitamin A 875IU (18%) Vitamin C 14mg (16%) Calcium 43mg (4%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 62 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 62kcal 3%
Carbohydrates 8g 3%
Protein 2g 4%
Fat 3g 5%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g 6%
Monounsaturated Fat 1g 5%
Trans Fat 1g 50%
Cholesterol 8mg 3%
Sodium 511mg 21%
Potassium 240mg 5%
Fiber 3g 12%
Sugar 4g 8%
Vitamin A 875IU 18%
Vitamin C 14mg 16%
Calcium 43mg 4%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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