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Bean there, done that

French green beans are just as versatile as they are varied

by laura bode

Steamed, fried, baked, blanched, braised, battered or sautéed, the ways to prepare French green beans are numerous. From the classic green bean casserole at the holidays to salads, stir-fries and soups, French green beans can be part of any meal, as the star or as a side dish. French green beans are legumes (plants that produce a pod with edible seeds). They are also known as snap beans or string beans.

And while they are related to fresh shell beans, such as lima and pinto beans, French green beans, also known as haricots verts, are a more petite version of a typical string bean. French green beans cook quickly and have a more delicate texture and slightly sweeter flavour than other green bean types. They are also a nutritionally solid vegetable choice, at just 22 calories per 125 millilitres (1/2 cup), and they have 1 gram of protein and almost 2 grams of fibre for this serving size with just a trace amount of fat, according to Health Canada.

French green beans are a favourite for the classic green bean casserole, which can be jazzed up during the holidays with bacon and water chestnuts for extra crunch. Why not try a different recipe each week—from roasted French green beans with goat cheese and hazelnuts, to sautéing the beans in butter, herbs and garlic? Want a true win with the youngest members of your household? Give French green bean fries a try: Drizzle them lightly with olive oil, sprinkle with your favourite spices and air-fry for a tasty side dish that’s done in less than 15 minutes.

French green beans are just as delicious cold as they are warm. Simply blanch or lightly steam the beans for 5 minutes, then cool in the refrigerator before adding to a cold pasta salad filled with veggies. Toss in your favourite store-bought or homemade dressing and you’ll have a filling meal sure to be a hit with family and friends—and, depending on the size of your salad, possibly leftovers, too.