Today, I’m talking about wax beans.
These beautiful golden beans are close cousins of green beans, but many people find them a little sweeter and more delicate in flavor. They’re tender, versatile and one of summer’s simple pleasures.
Growing up, my parents planted wax beans in the garden every year. During the summer, we were often sent outside in the early morning or after the sun had gone down to pick them. At the time, I didn’t think much about it, but it turns out there was a good reason for that.
Garden experts often recommend harvesting beans and other vegetables during the cooler parts of the day. Morning harvests are especially prized because the vegetables have had the night to replenish moisture, helping them stay crisp, fresh and flavorful. Evening harvesting can also be a good option when temperatures begin to cool down. The hot afternoon sun, on the other hand, can cause vegetables to lose moisture more quickly.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy wax beans is simply steamed until tender and served with a squeeze of fresh lemon. They also pair beautifully with garlic, dill, onions or just a heaping helping of mashed potatoes.
What memories do you have of your family garden?
I started out over a decade ago watching Forks Over Knives, decided to “try out” the plant-based meal plan and had shockingly incredible results. I’ve never turned back. I have lost nearly 50 pounds, and that is just one side effect that me, my family, friends and clients have experienced after making the change.
Having been an incredible cook my entire adult life, I started my own personal chef service, NuYu Nourish, to extend my help to others. I interned under a celebrity chef, became a celebrity chef myself and have been expanding my reach and goals ever since! My plan follows strictly and simply those of Dr. Mcdougall, Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Esselstyn.
