Crispy and Flavorful: Air Fryer Green Beans That Will Make You Want to Eat Your Veggies
Green beans are one of the most nutritious vegetables out there – they are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. However, many people don’t find them very appetizing, especially when they are boiled or steamed to the point of being limp and flavorless. That’s why preparing them in the air fryer is a game-changer – it takes just minutes to make them crispy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. In this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect air fryer green beans and explore their health benefits.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp. onion powder
– 1/2 tsp. salt
– 1/4 tsp. black pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Place the green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not crowded.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the green beans are crispy and browned on the outside but still tender on the inside.
5. Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Health Benefits of Green Beans
1. Low in calories: One cup of green beans contains only about 30 calories, making them an excellent choice for weight management.
2. High in fiber: Green beans are an excellent source of fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels, maintain bowel regularity, and keep you feeling full for longer.
3. Rich in vitamins and minerals: Green beans are loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for a healthy immune system, strong bones, and overall well-being.
4. May lower the risk of chronic diseases: Studies have shown that consuming green beans regularly can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen green beans in the air fryer?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through and crispy.
2. Can I use other seasonings besides garlic and onion powder?
Absolutely – feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs, such as cumin, paprika, thyme, or rosemary.
3. Can I make a larger batch of green beans in the air fryer?
Yes, but you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can lead to uneven cooking.
4. How do I store leftover green beans?
Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
Air fryer green beans are a tasty and healthy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. They are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are so delicious that even picky eaters will be won over. With their crispy texture and flavorful seasoning, air fryer green beans are a great addition to any meal. So grab a handful of fresh green beans and start air frying today!
