Ready in: 20 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Air Frying · Storage: Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
These Air Fryer Green Beans are a quick and flavorful side dish that brings a delightful crunch to your holiday table.Thanksgiving in New York City is a whirlwind of culinary delight, and as the festive season approaches, I'm on the lookout for side dishes that are not only delicious but also simple to prepare. This year, I decided to bring a little crunch to my holiday table with Air Fryer Green Beans. They're vibrant, fresh, and exude the comforting flavors of the season-perfect for both Thanksgiving feasting and Christmas gatherings.
A Perfect Holiday Side Dish
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparations perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
- Utilizes fresh ingredients for a vibrant and nutritious side dish.
- Results in perfectly crispy green beans that everyone will love.
- Can easily be customized with various spices and toppings for extra flavor.
- Leftovers, if any, can be stored and reheated without losing their crunch.
Ingredients
To prepare these Air Fryer Green Beans, gather the following ingredients:
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans: Look for crisp, bright green beans with no blemishes.
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Extra virgin gives a rich taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt: I use a blend with herbs and spices for extra flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground offers the best aroma.
How to Make Air Fryer Green Beans (Step-by-Step)
This recipe for Air Fryer Green Beans is simple and quick, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. Follow these steps to create a colorful and crunchy side dish.
Step 1: Prep the Beans
Start by rinsing the green beans under cold water and patting them dry with a kitchen towel. This step is essential to ensure they crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 2: Seasoning
In a mixing bowl, toss the green beans with the olive oil, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper. I love the way the olive oil glistens against the vibrant green of the beans, almost like a promise of flavor waiting to burst.
Step 3: Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the beans in a single layer in the basket-this is crucial. If they're overcrowded, they won't get that wonderful crispiness. Air fry for about 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Keep an eye on them-when they start to turn golden brown and fragrant, they're almost done!
Step 4: Serving
Once cooked, remove the beans from the air fryer. The slight crunch they've developed is so enticing. I often serve them right away, but they can also be a gorgeous addition to your holiday spread, adding a splash of color to a traditional feast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Drying Process: Wet beans will steam instead of crisping, so make sure they're thoroughly dried.
- Overcrowding the Basket: Air needs to circulate for even cooking-don't pile the beans too high.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: This can lead to uneven cooking and a lack of crispness.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Experiment with different spices-smoked paprika or crushed red pepper can elevate the dish even further.
- If you love more texture, try adding some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, after air frying.
Variations
- Use fresh lemon zest for a zesty kick.
- Incorporate balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Swap olive oil for sesame oil for a nutty twist.
How to Serve
- Serve immediately for the best crunch.
- Pair with your favorite holiday main dishes as a vibrant side.
- Add to a charcuterie board for a colorful snack option.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prep the green beans by washing and drying them a day in advance.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to regain crunch.
- Freezing: Not recommended for this recipe, as it can affect texture and crispness.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Perfecting this recipe revealed the air fryer's incredible ability to elevate simple ingredients. Each bite of green bean reminds me of cherished family gatherings, emphasizing the joy of flavor during the holiday season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~70 calories · 2g protein · 10g carbs · 3g fat
Recipe by:
Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans for Your Holiday Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the green beans under cold water and patting them dry with a kitchen towel.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the beans in a single layer in the basket and air fry for about 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once cooked, remove the beans from the air fryer and serve immediately for the best crunch.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
While fresh green beans yield the best results, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before proceeding with the recipe to avoid steaming.
2. What other seasonings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings! Some great alternatives include smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, or adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
3. How do I keep the green beans crispy after cooking?
To keep the green beans crispy, serve them immediately after cooking. If you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes.
4. Can I make these air fryer green beans in advance?
While it's best to serve them fresh, you can prep the green beans ahead of time by seasoning them and storing them in the fridge. Just air fry them right before you're ready to serve.
5. How long do air fryer green beans last in the fridge?
Air fryer green beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure they're kept in an airtight container for best results.
