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A white bowl filled with freshly steam green beans sits on a gray surface, next to a spoon and a white cloth. Text at the bottom reads “Steamed Green Beans Recipe.”.

How to Steam Fresh Green Beans

Melissa Griffiths
Learning how to Steam Green Beans is one of the easiest ways to prepare this versatile vegetable while preserving its vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. This simple stovetop method creates perfectly cooked beans that work as a healthy side dish for any meal!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 42 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium-sized pot with lid
  • Steamer basket that will fit into your pot
  • Tongs

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 pound fresh green beans (washed, trimmed, and cut)
  • 1 cup water (or enough for 1 inch of water in bottom of pan)
  • 2 tabelspoon butter (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon seasonings (to taste)

Instructions
 

  • Thoroughly wash and trim the ends off the green beans. Cut them if desired, or leave them whole.
  • Add about 1 inch of water to a medium-sized pot and bring it to a boil.
  • Put the steamer basket in the pot, making sure it's not touching the water.
  • Place the green beans into the steamer basket and cover with a lid.
  • Steam for about 3-5 minutes or until desired tenderness is reached.
  • Use heat-safe tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the green beans from the pot, being careful not to burn yourself with steam.
  • Season as desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Bean Variety Options: I like to go for the thinner haricot verts variety, but standard green beans work just as well.
Prep Work is Essential: Make sure to wash and trim the ends of the beans before steaming.
Seasonings Options: Salt & pepper, garlic butter, lemon zest, balsamic glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze, Parmesan cheese, soy sauce, and sesame oil are all great seasonings for green beans!
Add aromatics: Place crushed garlic cloves or lemon slices in the steaming water to infuse subtle flavor into the beans.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftover steamed green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet with butter. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture will soften after thawing.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 42kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 2gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 13mgPotassium: 255mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 816IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 64mgIron: 2mg
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