How to Cook Green Beans

Start with 12 ounces fresh green beans. Wash beans and remove ends and strings. Leave beans whole, or cut them into 1-inch pieces (makes 2-1/2 cups), or slice them lengthwise for French-cut beans.

Cook green beans, covered, in a small amount of boiling salted water until crisp-tender:

- 10 to 15 minutes for whole or cut green beans

- 5 to 10 minutes for French-cut green beans

Place green beans in a casserole dish with 2 tablespoons water. Microwave, covered, on 100 percent power (high) until crisp-tender, stirring once:

- 8 to 12 minutes for whole or cut green beans

- 7 to 10 minutes for French-cut green beans

In a steamer cook whole, cut, or French-cut green beans, covered, for 18 to 22 minutes or until crisp-tender.

Step 1: Blanch green beans

Bring a large saucepan of water to boiling. Add 1 tablespoon salt and the green beans. Cook beans for 3 to 4 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain beans and immediately plunge them into ice water. Let the beans sit in ice water for 3 minutes or until cool. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Saute green beans

In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beans. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes or until heated through. Season with 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 1: Cook green beans

Place green beans in a casserole dish with 2 tablespoons water. Microwave, covered, on 100 percent power (high) until crisp-tender, stirring once:

- 8 to 12 minutes for whole or cut green beans

- 7 to 10 minutes for French-cut green beans

Drain beans well.

Step 2: Combine with filling

In a large mixing bowl stir together one 10-3/4-ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup and black pepper to taste. Stir in the beans. Transfer mixture to a 1-quart casserole.

Step 3: Bake casserole

Sprinkle the top with 1-1/3 cups French-fried onions or bread crumbs. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the mixture is heated through and the topping is golden.