If you are looking for a low-calorie and nutritious option, 1 cup of cooked string beans from frozen contains only 70 calories. These beans are easy to cook and can be added to your meals in a variety of ways.
Apart from being low in calories, string beans are also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folic acid. They also contain iron, magnesium, and potassium.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for cooking and incorporating string beans into your diet. We'll also look at the health benefits of string beans and compare them to other vegetables.
Calories in String Beans
One cup of cooked string beans from frozen contains about 70 calories. This makes them an excellent choice for those who are looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Benefits of Eating String Beans
Eating string beans can provide several health benefits. They are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full. They also contain folate, a B vitamin that is important for healthy fetal development. String beans are also rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Nutritional Value of String Beans
String beans are a nutrient-dense food, which means that they are high in nutrients but low in calories. One cup of cooked string beans from frozen contains the following nutrients:
- Calories: 70
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 7g
- Fat: 0g
- Vitamin C: 18mg
- Vitamin K: 14mcg
- Folate: 77mcg
- Iron: 1mg
- Magnesium: 38mg
- Potassium: 390mg
How to Cook Frozen String Beans?
Cooking frozen string beans is easy and requires no special skills. Here's a simple recipe you can follow:
- Remove the string beans from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the string beans to the pot and cook for about 3-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
- Drain the string beans and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Season the string beans with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasoning before serving.
String Beans vs. Other Vegetables
String beans are a great vegetable option, but how do they compare to other vegetables in terms of nutritional value? Here's a comparison:
- String Beans vs. Broccoli: Broccoli is richer in vitamin C and vitamin K, but string beans contain more fiber and iron.
- String Beans vs. Spinach: Spinach is higher in iron, vitamin C, and vitamin K, but string beans have more fiber and fewer calories.
- String Beans vs. Carrots: Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, but string beans have more fiber and fewer calories.
String Beans Recipes
String beans can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are a few ideas:
- String bean salad with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette
- Stir-fry with chicken, garlic, and ginger
- Sautéed with olive oil and garlic
- Roasted with parmesan cheese and lemon juice
String Beans as a Side Dish
String beans make a great side dish for any meal. They are versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Some popular side dish ideas include:
- Cooked with butter and garlic
- Tossed with lemon juice and parmesan cheese
- Sautéed with balsamic vinegar and shallots
- Mixed with other veggies for a colorful medley
String Beans for Weight Loss
String beans are a great food to include in a weight loss diet. They are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied. They also provide important nutrients that can help support overall health.
String Beans for a Healthy Diet
Incorporating string beans into your diet can help you to maintain a healthy diet. They are a nutrient-dense food that provides important vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are also low in calories, which makes them a great option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Buying and Storing String Beans
When buying string beans, look for beans that are firm and bright green in color. Avoid beans that are discolored or have spots. Fresh string beans should be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag. They can be stored for up to 1 week. Frozen string beans can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of vegetables, like string beans, can help to promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked String Beans
1. What are string beans?
String beans, also known as green beans or snap beans, are a type of legume that are harvested while still immature, before the inner beans begin to harden. They are often eaten cooked or fresh and are a popular vegetable in many cuisines around the world.
2. Are cooked string beans healthy?
Yes, cooked string beans are a healthy food choice. They are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly high in vitamin K, which is important for bone health and blood clotting, and folate, which is important for cell growth and division. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which helps support a healthy immune system.
3. How do you cook frozen string beans?
To cook frozen string beans, you can either boil them or steam them. To boil them, bring a pot of water to a boil, add the frozen string beans, and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender. To steam them, place the frozen string beans in a steamer basket and steam them for 5-6 minutes until tender.
4. What are some ways to use cooked string beans?
Cooked string beans can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, stir-fries, and casseroles. They can also be served as a side dish seasoned with salt, pepper, and butter or olive oil. Some people enjoy eating them cold with a dip or adding them to soups and stews for added flavor and nutrition.
5. How long do cooked string beans last?
Cooked string beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 6 months. When reheating cooked string beans, it's best to do so quickly in the microwave or by steaming them again, as overcooking them can cause them to become mushy.