Begin by washing your fresh green beans under cool running water. Trim off the ends and any tough parts with a sharp knife. You can leave them whole or cut them into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.
Transfer the trimmed green beans to your microwave-safe bowl. Spread them out evenly for uniform cooking.
Pour 3 tablespoons of water into the bowl with the green beans. This water will turn into steam as it heats up, cooking the beans.
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate. This will help trap the steam, allowing the beans to cook evenly and thoroughly.
Place the covered bowl in the microwave. Cook on high for about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave and how tender you prefer your beans. Start with 3 minutes and check for doneness. They should be bright green and tender yet still crisp.
Once cooked, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot!). Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the green beans to a serving dish. Drain any excess water from the bowl.
While the beans are still warm, add 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine, allowing the butter to melt and coat the beans.
