Looking for a healthy side dish that won't break the calorie bank? Look no further than 1/2 cup of stir fried green beans, which clock in at just 50 calories per serving. Not only are they low in calories, but green beans are also packed with nutrition.

Green beans are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect your body against disease. By adding green beans to your diet, you can improve your health while enjoying a delicious and low-calorie side dish.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for cooking perfect stir fried green beans every time, as well as some creative ways to incorporate them into your diet. So let's get started!

Health Benefits of Green Beans

Green beans are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. One cup of cooked green beans contains just 44 calories, making them a great choice for weight loss and weight management. But that's not all – here are some other health benefits of green beans to consider: - They are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cancer and other chronic diseases. - They are a good source of vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system. - They are high in fiber, which can improve digestive health and help control blood sugar levels. With so many health benefits, it's no wonder that green beans are such a popular and versatile vegetable.

How to Cook Perfect Stir Fried Green Beans

Stir frying is a fantastic cooking method for green beans, as it preserves their crisp texture and bright color. However, it can be a bit tricky to get just right. Here are some tips for cooking perfect stir fried green beans: - Start with fresh green beans that are firm and bright green in color. - Trim off the stems and rinse the beans in cool water. - Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add a neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil. - Add the green beans to the hot pan and stir fry for 2-3 minutes, until they are lightly charred but still tender-crisp. - Season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy perfectly cooked, crisp and delicious stir fried green beans every time.

Add Flavor to Your Green Beans with Seasonings

While green beans are delicious on their own, they can be even better with the right seasonings. Here are some ideas for adding extra flavor to your stir fried green beans: - Garlic and ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan before stir frying to infuse the green beans with rich, savory flavor. - Soy sauce: Drizzle soy sauce over the stir fried green beans for a salty, umami taste. - Chili flakes: Sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes over the green beans for a spicy kick. - Lemon juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked green beans to brighten the flavors. By experimenting with different seasonings, you can create a variety of delicious green bean dishes that are sure to become family favorites.

The Best Oil to Use for Stir Frying Green Beans

When stir frying green beans, it's important to use an oil that can withstand high heat without burning or smoking. Here are some oils that work well for stir frying: - Canola oil: This neutral oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a great choice for stir frying. - Vegetable oil: Like canola oil, vegetable oil has a high smoke point and is very versatile. - Peanut oil: This oil has a slightly nutty flavor and a high smoke point, making it perfect for stir frying. Regardless of the oil you choose, be sure to heat it until it is shimmering hot before adding the green beans to the pan.

Green Beans: A Low-Calorie Side Dish

When it comes to side dishes, many of the most popular options are high in calories, fat, and sodium. But green beans are a refreshing and healthy alternative that can help you stay on track with your weight loss goals. Here are some reasons why green beans are a smart choice for anyone looking to cut calories: - They are naturally low in calories, with just 50 calories per 1/2 cup serving. - They are high in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied. - They are low in sodium, making them a great choice for anyone with high blood pressure. By choosing green beans as your go-to side dish, you can indulge without the guilt.

What to Pair with Stir Fried Green Beans

Stir fried green beans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some of our favorite options: - Grilled chicken: The lean protein in grilled chicken is a perfect complement to the crisp green beans. - Stir fried tofu: For a vegetarian option, try pairing the green beans with stir fried tofu and brown rice. - Beef stir fry: Make a complete meal by stir frying beef, green beans, and other vegetables together in one pan. - Shrimp and vegetable kabobs: Thread shrimp and green beans onto skewers and grill them for a healthy and delicious meal. No matter what main dish you choose, stir fried green beans are sure to add bright color, flavor, and nutrition to your plate.

Easy and Quick Stir Fried Green Beans Recipe

Looking for a quick and easy recipe for stir fried green beans? Here's one that you can whip up in just a few minutes: - Ingredients: 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed; 1 tablespoon canola oil; salt and pepper to taste. - Instructions: Heat the canola oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering hot. Add the green beans and stir fry for 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple recipe is a great way to enjoy the crisp, fresh flavors of green beans with minimal fuss.

Roasting vs Stir Frying Green Beans

While stir frying is a popular and easy way to cook green beans, it's not the only option. Roasting is another great cooking method that can yield delicious results. Here's how roasting and stir frying compare: - Stir frying: This method cooks green beans quickly over high heat, preserving their crisp texture and bright color. - Roasting: Roasting green beans at a high temperature can bring out their natural sweetness and deepen their flavor. Both methods can be delicious, so it's worth experimenting to see which one you prefer. Try roasting green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic for a flavorful twist on this classic vegetable.

Stir Fried Green Beans with Garlic and Soy Sauce

Looking for a way to add some extra flavor to your stir fried green beans? Try this recipe, which features garlic and soy sauce for a salty, savory taste: - Ingredients: 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon canola oil; salt and pepper to taste. - Instructions: Heat the canola oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering hot. Add the minced garlic and stir fry for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the green beans and stir fry for 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred but still crisp. Drizzle soy sauce over the green beans and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This flavorful recipe is a great way to liven up your stir fried green beans.

Ways to Incorporate Green Beans into Your Diet

Stir frying is a great way to enjoy green beans, but it's not the only way. Here are some other creative ways to incorporate this versatile vegetable into your diet: - Salad: Add cooked and chilled green beans to a fresh salad for a pop of color and crunch. - Soup: Green beans are a delicious addition to many soups, including minestrone, vegetable soup, and chili. - Casserole: Layer green beans with other vegetables and a creamy sauce for a comforting casserole. - Pickles: Pickled green beans are a tangy and flavorful way to enjoy this vegetable. With so many ways to enjoy green beans, there's no reason to limit yourself to stir frying. Try out these creative ideas and discover new favorite dishes.