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Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans

This dish transforms fresh green beans into a smoky, crispy snack using the air fryer. Tossed in olive oil and seasonings, the beans blister and char at the edges, resulting in a tender yet crunchy final texture with a vibrant appearance. Perfect as a snack or side, it’s quick, flavorful, and visually appealing.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bunch fresh green beans trimmed and washed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil good quality for flavor and blistering
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt to enhance flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for smoky, savory notes
  • optional fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Air fryer basket
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F), so it's ready to go once the beans are seasoned.
  2. Trim the ends of the green beans and give them a good wash. Pat them dry thoroughly with a towel—this helps them crisp up better.
  3. Place the green beans in a mixing bowl, then drizzle with olive oil. Toss gently to coat each bean evenly—you should see a slight shimmer and some small blisters forming.
  4. Add the sea salt and garlic powder to the bowl. Toss again until the seasoning is evenly distributed and the beans look well-coated.
  5. Spread the seasoned green beans in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they crisp up nicely.
  6. Cook for about 8 minutes, then shake the basket halfway through to promote even blistering and browning. You’ll hear a gentle sizzling as they cook.
  7. Check the beans—they should be blistered at the edges, with a vibrant green color and a slight char. If you want more charring, increase the temperature to 220°C (430°F) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  8. Remove the beans from the air fryer using tongs and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs if you like extra freshness.
  9. Let the green beans sit for 2 minutes; they’ll crisp up further as they cool just slightly. Then, serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, sprinkle with smoked paprika before cooking. These green beans are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispness.