Go Back

Air Fryer Crispy Green Beans

These green beans are tossed with a touch of oil and roasted in the air fryer until vibrant and crispy, showcasing a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. The high heat creates a smoky, roasted aroma with lightly charred tips, finished with fresh lemon zest and optional Parmesan for added flavor. An easy, healthy side dish with a delightful texture and bright appearance.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Modern
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed and washed
  • 1 tsp olive oil or neutral oil
  • to taste salt preferably sea salt or flaky salt
  • 1 lemon lemon for zest and juice
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan parmesan optional, freshly grated

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs or silicone spatula
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) to get it ready for roasting.
  2. Place the washed and trimmed green beans in a mixing bowl, then drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil. Toss gently to coat all the beans evenly; they should glisten slightly but not be swimming in oil.
  3. Spread the beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded so hot air can circulate freely for maximum crispiness.
  4. Roast for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You'll hear a gentle sizzling and see the beans turn a vibrant green with lightly browned tips as they develop that smoky aroma.
  5. Once crispy and fragrant, carefully remove the basket. Check for crunch—if they need a bit more, cook for another minute or two, watching to prevent overburning.
  6. Transfer the hot green beans to a serving bowl. Finely grate some Parmesan over the top if using, and season immediately with salt to enhance their natural sweetness and smoky flavor.
  7. Zest a lemon directly over the beans, then squeeze in a little fresh lemon juice for brightness. Toss gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
  8. Serve immediately while still crispy and fragrant. Enjoy the vibrant, smoky crunch as a perfect side or snack.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after roasting. To make this dish vegan, omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.