The green bean has a long, slender green pod with small seeds inside. The entire pod is edible. It's also called string bean (because of the fibrous string — now bred out of the species — that used to run down the pod's seam) and snap bean (for the sound the bean makes when broken in half). The wax bean is a pale yellow variety of green bean. Green beans are available year-round, with a peak season of May to October. Choose slender beans that are crisp, bright-colored and free of blemishes. Store in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in a plastic bag, for up to 5 days. Cook gently by steaming or simmering just until tender-crisp. Green beans have a fair amount of vitamins A and C. See also beans.