Snap beans, also known as green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), are a popular vegetable that can be eaten both raw and cooked. With only 31 calories per 1 cup (100g), snap beans are a great addition to any weight loss diet.

In addition to being low in calories, snap beans are also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and folate. They are also rich in antioxidants that can help protect against chronic diseases.

Whether you're looking to lose weight or simply add more veggies to your diet, snap beans are a nutritious and delicious choice.

Snap Beans for Weight Loss

Snap beans are a fantastic food to include in your weight loss diet. With only 31 calories per 1 cup (100g), they can help you fill up without adding many calories to your meal. Additionally, the fiber in snap beans can help promote satiety and prevent overeating. Try steaming or sautéing snap beans and adding them to your meals for a low-calorie, high-nutrient boost.

How to Cook Snap Beans

Snap beans can be cooked in a variety of ways, from steaming to roasting. For a simple preparation, wash snap beans and trim the ends. Then, steam them in a covered pot for about 5-7 minutes, until they are bright green and tender. If you prefer a roasted flavor, toss snap beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, until they are crispy and lightly browned.

Health Benefits of Raw Snap Beans

While snap beans are commonly cooked, they can also be eaten raw. In fact, snap beans offer a number of health benefits when eaten raw, such as retaining more of their nutrient content. Raw snap beans can be a good source of vitamin C and fiber, both of which are important for health. They are also rich in antioxidants that can help protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Vitamins and Minerals in Snap Beans

In addition to being low in calories and high in fiber, snap beans are also a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. For example, 1 cup (100g) of snap beans contains: - 27% of the RDI for vitamin C - 16% of the RDI for vitamin K - 15% of the RDI for folate - 8% of the RDI for potassium These nutrients are essential for many aspects of health, from immune function to brain health.

Difference between Snap Beans and Green Beans

Snap beans are often used interchangeably with green beans, but there is a subtle difference between the two. While green beans are usually longer and thinner, snap beans are more plump and round. Snap beans also have a firmer texture than green beans when cooked, making them ideal for roasting or stir-frying.

Nutrition Facts for 1 Cup of Snap Beans (100g)

Here is a breakdown of the nutrition facts for 1 cup (100g) of raw snap beans: - calories: 31 - Protein: 2 g - Fat: 0 g - Carbohydrates: 7 g - Fiber: 3 g - Vitamin C: 27% of the RDI - Vitamin K: 16% of the RDI - Folate: 15% of the RDI - Potassium: 8% of the RDI

How to Choose and Store Snap Beans

When selecting snap beans at the grocery store or farmer's market, look for beans that are brightly colored and firm to the touch. Avoid beans that are wilted or have brown spots. To store snap beans, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of the fridge. They should last for up to 1 week.

Add Snap Beans to Your Salad

Snap beans can be a delicious addition to your salads. To make a snap bean salad, blanch the beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and then transfer them to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Then, toss them with your favorite dressing, such as a citrus vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing. You can also add snap beans to other salads, like pasta or grain salads. They add a crunchy, fresh flavor to any dish.

Recipes with Snap Beans

Looking for some inspiration on how to cook with snap beans? Here are a few recipes to try: - Sautéed Snap Beans with Garlic and Lemon - Roasted Snap Beans with Parmesan and Almonds - Snap Bean and Tomato Salad - Snap Bean and Mushroom Stir-Fry With their mild, versatile flavor, snap beans can be used in a variety of dishes.

Snap Beans and Digestive Health

Snap beans are a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements and can prevent constipation. It can also help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, snap beans contain prebiotics, which are a type of fiber that feed the healthy bacteria in your gut. This can help improve gut health and may even benefit your immune system.