What’s Fresh? Green Beans!

By Seth McBride, Marketing Intern

Did you know that green beans were native to Peru and were introduced to Central and North America by migrating Indians? Now, green beans are widely popular. Green beans are versatile and can be grown in many different climates, which is one of the reasons they are a globally recognized food. Green beans also grow very fast. The length of time from planting to harvest is only 45 to 60 days. They grow well in the spring and summer months.

While the crisp, delicious flavor is hard to resist, green beans are also very low in calories and have no saturated fats. They also provide the body with lots of fiber and protein, along with antioxidants, Vitamins A and C. Green beans have also been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, colon cancer, and birth defects.

Green beans taste the best when they are thinner than a pencil and generally keep up to a week. Preserve in perforated plastic bags and keep in the fridge on high humidity. Remember, to wash them in cold water, remove any strings, and trim the ends. Green beans work well in a lot of great dishes including stir-fry, stews, grilled-salads, curries, and soups. Try them in this week’s recipes: