Green beans are a green vegetable that also sometimes come in other colors, like purple, yellow, or even stripes. While they may be a popular dish on the Thanksgiving table, green beans actually grow best during the summer months when the weather is warm, as they don't tolerate freezing temperatures. Green beans are usually available by the month of June, and they are one of summer's staples that continues to remain abundant throughout the season. Some varieties of green beans are smooth, tender and slender, while others have fatter pods and may have significant strings running down them that can be pulled off prior to cooking. These fibrous strings inspire the vegetable's other name, “string beans.” Green beans are a legume like other beans and peas, although they are not as high in protein as other legumes are, containing around 2 grams of protein per cup. They are also good sources of fiber and Vitamin C, and contain some Vitamin A, iron, and potassium. See below for healthy recipe ideas starring green beans, or learn more about green beans and view their nutrition facts at Harvest of the Month.

Recipe Ideas:

Spicy Green Beans

Roasted Green Beans

Creole Green Beans

Green Bean and Mushroom Medley