How Long to Boil Green Beans
This is the easiest way to boil green beans- ready in just 10 minutes! The key is to drop them into already boiling salt water and cook them until they're bright green and crisp-tender.
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Cook Time5 minutes mins
Total Time10 minutes mins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
- 1 lb. green beans fresh
- 1 tsp. salt plus more for serving
- 1-2 Tbsp. butter optional
Bring a large pot of water to a boil along with the salt.
While the water is heating up, snap off the stems of the green beans by hand or trim and remove the ends with a knife.
Carefully add the green beans to the water using a slotted spoon and boil for about 4-5 minutes, or until crisp tender. Begin checking on them after 3 minutes to ensure they do not overcook.
Drain the green beans in a colander in the sink. Serve with butter and additional salt, to taste. Enjoy!
Meal Prep and Storage
- To Serve: Top the warm green beans with a pat of butter and salt. One pound of green beans will result in 4 servings.
- To Prep-Ahead: Wash and trim the ends off of the green beans and keep in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days in advance.
- To Store: Seal leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.
- To Freeze: Arrange the cooked green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 4 hours. Then transfer them to freezer-safe ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Warm in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat, or simply microwave until hot.
Calories: 62kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 511mg | Potassium: 240mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 875IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 1mg