per 100 grams
Carbohydrates 7.9 g
7.9%
Proteins 1.9 g
1.9%
Fats 0.3 g
0.3%
Water 89.2 g
89.2%
Fiber 3.2 grams
Trans Fats 0 ug
Ash 0.7 grams

Green Beans (snap Beans)

35 Calories per 100g

When it comes to green beans, there are a lot of things to like. Usually fresh and a vibrant green, these little bean pods are flavourful, versatile and packed with health benefits, making them a favourite for many home cooks. Also known as snap beans, the green bean is a legume, originally cultivated in Central America and Peru and then adopted throughout the world.

Starting with the basics: Green beans are a member of the Phaseolus family, sometimes referred to as string beans due to their fibrous string that runs along the seam of the long, slender pods. They can be anywhere from two to twelve inches in length, and can range from quite thin (aka French green beans) to quite wide.

The fresh pods are firm and crisp, nearly hollow inside. When cooked, the pods become bright green, tender and crunchy. Flat beans, which also fall under the category of green beans, have a flat, wide shape – like a jumbo green bean. While both varieties are essentially the same, flat beans tend to be more sweet and flavourful because they have more surface area than the thinner variety. Many French and gourmet recipes tend to call for the flatter ones.

What makes the green bean a star of the kitchen is the incredibly versatile way it can be cooked. Steam, boil, sauté and bake with them – you name it, green beans can do it. The most common use is to blanch or steam them, allowing them to keep their crisp texture, vibrant green colour and nutritional value. From there, the possibilities really open up – you can add them to salads and grains bowls, stir-fries, soups and stews. Or, take your classic green been sides to the next level with a homemade sauce or roasted with other vegetables. The list goes on.

And despite their versatility in the kitchen, green beans offer plenty of nutritional value. Rich in antioxidants, green beans are full of vitamins A and C, which can help reduce inflammation and keep our immune system healthy. They are also packed with carotenoids, which are associated with protection against chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.

In addition to nutrients, green beans have a relatively low glycemic index meaning they can be part of a low carb lifestyle. Plus, they're a low-calorie plant-based protein and dietary fibre, which can aid digestion and help you stay full.

Overall, green beans make an ideal addition to any meal. From a health and cooking perspective, they are hard to beat – offering a nutritionally balanced addition to any diet. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of colour and flavour to a side dish, or need a simple vegetable to round out a dinner spread, there’s a lot you can do with this trusty veggie.