Cooking Fresh Green Beans
Benefits of Cooking Fresh Green Beans
For many years, getting vegetables to the dinner table has been very easy thanks to processed canned foods; numerous families have never experienced cooking fresh; greens beans, for example. There are definite benefits for cooking fresh that may change your mind the next time you reach for a canned product.
Avid gardeners know the pleasure of planting, nurturing, harvesting and finally serving the fruits of their labor to their family. There is something very basic about supplying your own food, and vegetables are the easiest and most satisfying way to do this. Green beans are especially rewarding, for once the plant reaches maturity and begins to produce, the adage “the more you pick, the more you get” applies; resulting in beautiful, fresh vegetables for an extended time. Then the true reward is realized: cooking fresh green beans and serving them to your family.
Cooking fresh green beans and other vegetables comes with more than just the satisfaction of reaping the rewards of your efforts, however. Certain health benefits are also in line for those who cook fresh. Green beans are a vegetable high in fiber and water content, resulting in a very nutritious and low calorie food. One cup of green beans is less than 50 calories when served alone. Fiber is a highly desired quality in food; attributing to lowering cholesterol levels, prevents blood sugar levels from rapidly rising after eating, and generally promotes heart health.
There are even more benefits for cooking fresh green beans. An excellent source of protein, green beans and other beans as well are a great alternative to meat proteins which are high in cholesterol. Vitamins and minerals are contained within those crisp green pods, included Vitamin B6, magnesium, folic acid and antioxidants, all essential to body health.
Before cooking fresh green beans, sort through them and remove any that are mottled, dried or limp. Fresh green beans should be green, crisp and whole. Snap or cut off blossom end and, if desired, bottom end. The beans can be cooked whole or cut into bite sized pieces depending on your own preference. A small amount of water added to the bottom of the pan is all that is necessary when cooking fresh green beans. Bring the water to a boil then add the green beans and cover. Cooking should only take approximately 15 minutes, bringing the fresh beans to a tender-crisp state and a vibrant green color. This method of cooking preserves the nutritional value of the green beans as well as the delicious natural flavors.
People not able to garden can still benefit from cooking fresh green beans. Grocery stores all offer fresh vegetables that contain the great health advantages as those straight from your own garden. To add vegetables to your family dinner table, reach for the fresh instead of the canned varieties as a healthier alternative.