Here's how to cook frozen green beans so they’re crisp-tender, not mushy! Made with minimal ingredients and little effort, this is an easy side dish for those busy weeknights.
16ouncebag of frozen green beans (preferably French green beans or haricots verts)
2tablespoonsolive or avocado oil
1-2teaspoonsseasoning(s) of choice
(Optional)lemon juice, parmesan cheese
Instructions
Saute
Add green beans to a large skillet or frying pan. Add ¼ cup of water for every ½ pound (8 ounces) and cook covered until the ice from the green beans melts, about 3-4 minutes.
Transfer to a colander and shake off excess moisture. Wipe down the pan. Otherwise, oil will splatter everywhere.
Add butter or oil to the same skillet and heat over medium heat. Add finely diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds or so. This step is optional BUT highly recommended.
Add green beans and saute for 3-5 minutes, or longer if you want them to be softer (for babies, cook covered). Add seasoning(s) of choice and a squeeze of fresh lemon always brightens it up.
Roast
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean up.
Add the green beans to the baking sheet in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Place in the oven and roast for 5 minutes. This extra step assists in removing excess water, which will help your green beans get nicely crisp.
Remove from the oven and add oil and seasonings of choice. Toss with tongs until green beans are well coated.
Place back in the oven and roast for another 8-10 minutes. Sprinkle some parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (optional).
Steam
Place water in a pot, add steamer basket, and bring to a boil.
Add green beans, cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 5-8 minutes, until crisp tender (or longer if serving to your baby or toddler). Transfer to a bowl and toss with seasoning(s) and lemon juice.
Microwave
Place ½ pound of green beans and 2 tablespoons water into a microwave safe dish.
Cover with a lid or microwave safe dish. Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Stir and repeat every 30 seconds, until heated through.
Notes
There is no need to thaw the green beans for any of these cooking methods. Just add straight from the freezer!