Pick your green beans from the garden or purchase them fresh from the Farmer's Market.

Carefully wash the beans in cool water and pat dry gently.

Remove the ends from the beans by either cutting with a knife or snapping them off, especially the ends with stems.

If using stringy-type beans, pull the strings off.

Break the beans by snapping or else chop them into 1-2 inch pieces.

To a large pot, add 1-2 tablespoons salt and water until about 3/4 of the way full. Bring to a rolling boil.

Fill a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes. Keep handy nearby.

Once the salted water boils, add the beans and stir gently for a short time until the beans turn bright green. Remove with a slotted spoon and plunge the beans into the bowl of ice water.

After the beans have cooled in the ice water, drain them completely.

Measure the beans into the quanities you like to use. (We use about a pint or 2 cups at a time) Fill freezer-appropriate containers with the portioned-out beans. Label containers with the date and quantity. Place in freezer. Use frozen beans as needed.