Overview
Green beans are the young pods of the common bean plant, a member of the Legume family.
Often called snap beans or string beans, these slender, elongated pods can appear in a vibrant green, soft yellow or deep purple hue, depending on the variety.
Harvested while the seeds are still in their sprouting stage, they are usually considered vegetables rather than pulses.
Green beans can be found fresh at markets, pre-cooked and canned, or frozen raw.
Seasonality
This delightful vegetable is in season from late spring through to the height of summer.
Varieties of Green Beans
While green pods are the most familiar, yellow and purple varieties also grace the Italian tables.
Green pods:
- Bobis: tender and delicate with silver-toned seeds.
- Marconi: flattened in shape, with black seeds and free of the fibrous strings along the sides.
- Contender: also known as “French beans,” these have broad, rounded pods.
- Vittoria nano: long and tapered with black seeds and no fibrous strings.
Yellow pods:
- Burro di Rocquencourt: distinguished by black seeds.
- Meraviglia di Venezia: flat-shaped beans with black or brown seeds.
- Corona d’Oro: round, plump pods, free from fibrous strings.
Purple pods:
- Re dei Bleu: featuring beige-brown seeds.
- Anellino di Trento: curved pods that are green with purple streaks.
How to Prepare Green Beans
Before cooking, trim the ends of the green beans and give them a thorough rinse under running water.
Culinary Uses
Steaming is the preferred cooking method, preserving their flavour and nutritional qualities to the fullest.
Often enjoyed cold in salads, green beans pair beautifully with boiled eggs, tuna or cheese — creating refreshing summer dishes.
Typically served as a side, dressed with olive oil and lemon or adorned with mayonnaise, green beans can also be a tasty foundation for pasta dishes or a flavoursome frittata.
Buying Tips
Choose green beans that feel firm with a glossy, vibrant colour.
Storing Green Beans
Whether raw or cooked, green beans keep best in the fridge for no more than two days.