Season:
June to September
Nutrition Facts:
One-half cup of unseasoned green beans has 15 calories, is low in fat and sodium, and provides fiber, vitamin A, and potassium.
Selection:
Choose slender, firm, smooth, crisp beans with slightly velvet-like pods and a bright color. Beans should be free of blemishes and have small seeds.
Storage:
Beans should be stored unwashed in plastic bags in the refrigerator crisper for 3 to 5 days. Wash just before preparation.
Preparation:
Wash and remove stems and strings. Cook by steaming in a small amount of water, until tender-crisp, about 5 to 8 minutes. They can be cooked directly in soups or stews. Green beans go well with seasonings such as chives, dill, marjoram, mint, oregano, thyme, lemon, mustard, or onion.
Buying Kentucky Proud is easy. Look for the label at your grocery store, farmers' market, or roadside stand.