Beans—specifically referring to common green beans, also known as french beans, string beans, or haricot verts—are slender, elongated pods harvested young while the internal seeds are still small and tender. Belonging to the legume family, they feature a smooth, vibrant green outer skin enclosing a crisp interior, offering a snappy, firm texture and a fresh, mildly sweet, and grassy flavor that turns tender and savory when cooked.