H is for Haricot Vert

 History: Haricot Vert is French for Green Bean.  From the same family, they are a variety of green beans that are longer and thinner than the types of green beans we commonly find in the US, though they grow just fine here. This post and recipe can apply to any kind of green bean, but there are reasons you might choose the fancier named bean, so we decided to feature it here.  If you are growing beans, the long bean we call string beans can either grow in bushes or on vines that need to be trellised or tied to poles.  There are advantages to the bush beans, like shorter growing time and less plant maintenance.  Haricot Vert are bush beans, though there are other beans that grow on bushes too.  When you are shopping at a farmer's market or the grocer for beans, an advantage would be ease of sorting, cleaning and use.  Haricot Vert tend to be straighter and thinner, so it is easier to find the nicer ones.  When serving green beans, a plate of organized, great tasting beans is the final advantage - you'll look like a pro.

Identification:  When you are standing at the Farmer's Market looking at beans, you will notice the thin, straight beans vs a mass of beans that are thicker and often have a curve at their end. The grocer will often have the Haricot Vert in bags, all lined up and easy to grab.  You will have to sort through the regular green beans to ensure the nicest choices.  There is sometimes a premium price on the Haricot Vert, but the flavor and quality usually makes it worth it.  This is another reason to consider growing them for yourself if you have the room.   Learn more about the health benefits of green beans here.           Season: May through Mid October  

This recipe will keep your green beans (and you can use any strain of green beans) at peak flavor while maintaining the most nutrients