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Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans

This recipe features fresh green beans roasted in the air fryer until crispy on the edges while remaining juicy inside. The high heat concentrates their natural sweetness and creates a caramelized, smoky exterior, finished with a bright squeeze of lemon for added freshness. It's a quick, flavorful side that requires minimal ingredients and effort, perfect for weeknights.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil good quality recommended
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder optional but recommended
  • 1 lemon lemon zest and juice
  • to taste black pepper freshly cracked

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 3 minutes, ensuring it's nice and hot for even cooking.
  2. Trim the ends of the green beans and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Pat them completely dry with a towel—this step is key for crispiness.
  3. In a mixing bowl, toss the green beans with a tablespoon of olive oil, half a teaspoon of salt, and garlic powder until evenly coated. The oil helps with browning and flavor.
  4. Spread the coated green beans in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overlapping. This allows hot air to circulate freely for crisp edges.
  5. Cook the beans for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even crisping. You’ll hear crackling and see the edges turn golden brown.
  6. Once cooked, check the beans; they should be crispy at the edges and tender inside. If they need a bit more crunch, cook for an additional 2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot green beans and sprinkle lemon zest for brightness. Add freshly cracked black pepper to taste for a perfect finishing touch.
  8. Give the beans a gentle toss to evenly distribute the lemon and seasonings, then transfer to a serving dish. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness and flavor.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with Parmesan or red pepper flakes before serving. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes until crispy again.