Green Beans

How to Choose the Best

Choose crisp, well formed green beans that have smooth skin. If the beans appear woody or tough with discolored brown spots all over, this is usually a sign they are not fresh.

Shelf Life and Storage

For the best flavor, try to use green beans within a day or two of purchasing. Beans can be stored in a zip-top plastic bag in the refrigerator until ready for use. Snap off the tough ends of the bean only when you are ready to cook them. Stored in the refrigerator in a bag, green beans can last up to five days.

Freezing

Cooked and chilled green beans can be frozen for up to two months.

Preparation Suggestions

Green beans make a great addition to a variety of recipes including salads, soups and casseroles. Blanched green beans are a required ingredient of the French niçoise salad and are easily recognized in a creamy green bean and mushroom casserole. Try serving green beans as a side dish, tossed with butter, lemon and herbs. Their crunchy texture makes them ideal for pickling and enjoying throughout the year.