Green Beans

MethodTempTimeNotes
SteamedSteamer basket over boiling water, covered5–7 min (7–9 min frozen)Start timing once steam fully surrounds the beans; check a bean at the low end so they don't go past tender-crisp.
BlanchedBoiling salted water, then ice bath2–3 min boil, ~5 min ice bathShocking in ice water stops the cooking and locks in the bright green color.
SautéedMedium-high heat, stovetop skillet8–10 minPat beans fully dry before they hit the hot oil so they sear instead of steam.
Roasted425°F (220°C)14–16 minDry thoroughly and use a single uncrowded layer, or they'll steam instead of caramelize.

Doneness is about color and bite more than the clock — pull beans as soon as they turn bright green and tender-crisp, since even a minute or two past that turns them drab and soft.

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