Green beans, a versatile and nutrient-packed vegetable, are a staple in many kitchens. When fresh ones aren’t available, frozen green beans step up as a convenient and nutritious alternative. In this article, we’ll explore four methods to cook frozen green beans that don’t need to thaw them before cooking.
1. How To Cook Frozen Green Beans on Stove
1.1. How To Sautee Frozen Green Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound of frozen green beans
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: minced garlic, lemon zest, slivered almonds for extra flavor
Instructions
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
Add olive oil or butter and let it melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
Add the frozen green beans, spreading them out evenly in the pan.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through and have a slight caramelization.
Season with salt and pepper, and add any optional ingredients like garlic, lemon zest, or slivered almonds for added flavor.
1.2. How To Steam Frozen Green Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound of frozen green beans
- Water
- Salt (optional)
Instructions
Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil.
Place a steamer basket over the boiling water. Make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the basket.
Add the frozen green beans to the steamer basket and cover with a lid.
Steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
Season with salt if desired.
2. How To Cook Frozen Green Beans in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound of frozen green beans
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs for added flavor
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large mixing bowl, toss the frozen green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread the green beans out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Optional: Sprinkle minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, or breadcrumbs over the green beans during the last 5 minutes of roasting for added flavor.
3. How To Cook Frozen Green Beans in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 pound of frozen green beans
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika, garlic powder, grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, toss the frozen green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Place the green beans in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Optional: Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, or grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans for additional flavor.
4. How To Cook Frozen Green Beans in Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 pound of frozen green beans
- Water
- Salt (optional)
Instructions
Place the frozen green beans in a microwave-safe dish.
Add a small amount of water to the dish, just enough to cover the bottom.
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, pausing to stir halfway through, until the green beans are tender.
Season with salt if desired.
Frozen green beans may not have the same fresh appeal as their counterparts from the garden, but with the right cooking methods and a little creativity, they can become a delightful addition to your meals.
Whether you choose to sauté, steam, roast in the oven, or use an air fryer or microwave, you now have the knowledge and techniques to cook frozen green beans not rubbery and soggy, transform them into a tasty and nutritious side dish
