Green Beans

Green Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)

The first cultivated beans in America were grown in Peru some 8,000 years ago. Along with squash and corn, beans quickly became a staple of the American diet and remains one of the most widely used garden vegetables in the U.S. Whether green, yellow, or purple, beans are cholesterol-free, high in vitamins A, B1 & B2, calcium and potassium, soluble fiber and protein. Beans are good for the soil as well, as they are nitrogen-fixers. When they're plowed under, they become a great green manure.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate beans in a plastic bag. Use as soon as possible. Beans will maintain their integrity quite well for up to ten days.

For long-term storage, beans can be easily frozen. Wash, trim, and blanch for 2 minutes. Rinse in ice-cold water and pack into zip-lock bag or airtight container. Freeze.