Demystifying the Italian Green Bean – A Guide to This Unique Vegetable

Italian green beans, also called Roman beans, are a beloved ingredient in Italian cuisine But what exactly are these flat, wide beans, and how do they differ from regular green beans? This guide will cover everything you need to know about these flavorful legumes – from their distinct characteristics to how to cook and enjoy them in your own kitchen

Defining the Italian Green Bean

Italian green beans go by several names including Roman beans flat beans, and Romano beans. But they all refer to the same vegetable – a variety of green bean with a striking, flattened shape and tender texture.

Some key identifying traits of Italian green beans:

• Flat, wide pods that are significantly wider than regular round green beans. Often two inches wide or more.

• Smooth, fleshy pods. The flat shape provides more edible surface area.

• Bright green color and medium length, averaging 5-6 inches.

• Delicate flavor with notes of nuttiness. Great fresh “green bean” taste.

• Very tender with a satisfying snap when cooked properly.

• Grown primarily in Italy and other parts of the Mediterranean. Available seasonally in summer.

How Are They Different From Standard Green Beans?

While they belong to the same family of green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), Italian types differ in a few ways from regular green beans:

• Shape and width – Italian beans are conspicuously wide and flat compared to traditional round pods.

• Texture – The flat shape gives Italian beans a smooth, creamy texture when cooked.

• Flavor – Italian beans have a delicate, nutty taste.

• Best cooking methods – Their tender texture lends itself well to quick steaming or sautéing.

• Common uses – Italian beans shine in Mediterranean dishes like pastas and gratins.

Popular Uses for Italian Green Beans

In Italian cuisine, these beans are valued for their versatility. Here are some of the most popular ways to enjoy them:

• Sautéed or braised as a side dish – tossed with garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and herbs.

• Added to soups like minestrone. Their texture holds up well when cooked in broth.

• Served raw in salads and antipasto platters. Their snap and nutty flavor shines when prepared this way.

• Baked into gratins, casseroles, and stuffed vegetables.

• Combined with pasta, seafood, meat, and cheese in main courses.

• Pickled and marinated for antipasti.

• Roasted or grilled for charred flavor.

No matter how you prepare them, Italian green beans add appeal and nutrition to any plate!

Selecting and Storing Italian Green Beans

When shopping for Italian beans, keep this advice in mind:

• Look for crisp, bright green beans without brown spots. Avoid overly limp pods.

• Smaller beans tend to be more tender. Larger beans can be stringier.

• Buy beans that snap cleanly when bent rather than seem dried out.

• Choose beans with edible-looking ends, not overly dried or brown ends.

• Store unwashed beans in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 3-5 days maximum.

Italian beans are highly perishable. Use them soon after purchasing for the best flavor and snappy texture.

Preparing Italian Green Beans for Cooking

Before cooking, Italian beans require a quick prep:

• Wash the beans thoroughly under cool running water.

• Trim both ends with a knife or kitchen shears. Cut off any strings.

• Leave beans whole or cut into smaller 2-3 inch pieces if desired.

• For sautéing or steaming, leave the beans intact. For soups and braises, cut them into segments.

With minimum waste and prep, the beans are ready to cook and enjoy!

Cooking Methods to Try

To fully appreciate their tender texture and fresh “bean-y” taste, use cooking methods like:

• Steaming – Cooks the beans just until tender-crisp in 6-8 minutes while preserving nutrients.

• Quick sauté – Makes for delicious caramelized beans via dry heat. Use olive oil, garlic, spices.

• Simmering in soups/stews – Adds substance and nutrition when cooked in broths for 8-12 minutes.

• Roasting – Develops richness and charred edges at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Toss first in oil and seasonings.

• Grilling – Creates smoky flavor and char-marks by grilling pods over medium heat for 5-8 minutes.

Armed with these techniques, you can showcase Italian green beans in many ways. Now let’s explore some recipe ideas.

Satisfying Recipe Ideas Starring Italian Green Beans

Take your appreciation of Italian beans to the next level with these tasty recipe suggestions:

• Green beans almondine – A classic preparation with steamed beans, toasted almonds, lemon, olive oil, and garlic.

• Pasta e fagioli – A hearty Italian soup with beans, tomatoes and small pasta like ditalini.

• Green bean salad – Blend raw crisp beans with tomato, onion, olives, parsley, olive oil, and red wine vinegar.

• Green bean casserole – An Italian twist on the classic with beans, tomato sauce, parmesan, mozzarella and breadcrumbs.

• Pesto green beans – Toss hot steamed beans with basil pesto for a bright, herby flavor.

• Italian green bean frittata – Bake eggs with Italian beans, tomatoes, cheese and herbs for a protein-packed breakfast.

With their versatile flavor, Italian beans can be incorporated into so many recipes beyond just “green bean casseroles”. Have fun with this unique ingredient!