Cooking tip: To make bean fries, mix together equal amounts of beer and flour, dip trimmed beans into the batter, then fry them in oil. This treat is a more nutrient-rich option when you're craving french fries.

Or, drizzle green beans with lemon juice -- not only is it tasty, but the citric acid also helps your body absorb iron from the green beans.

Nutrition note: They're a good source of vitamin C.

Perfect pick: Choose ones that are easy to snap and have smooth blemish-free skin.