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Crack Green Beans

Crack Green Beans

Crack Green Beans is a quick and flavorful side dish featuring fresh green beans cooked to crispy perfection with a savory, slightly spicy seasoning blend. This recipe delivers an addictive crunch and bold flavor using simple pantry ingredients, perfect for casual dinners, snacks, or gatherings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh Green Beans – 1 pound, washed and trimmed
  • Cooking Oil (avocado or vegetable) – 2 to 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – 1/4 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground

Optional Ingredients

  • Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup, freshly grated

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Wash and trim the ends of your fresh green beans. Pat them completely dry—this step is crucial to achieve that coveted crispiness when cooking.
  2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2-3 tablespoons of your chosen cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking, creating the perfect environment for crisping green beans quickly.
  3. Cook the Green Beans: Add the green beans in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes to develop a crispy char. Then toss occasionally for another 3-4 minutes until blistered, bright green, and crunchy.
  4. Season Well: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper evenly over the beans. Stir or toss well to coat every bean with the flavorful seasoning blend.
  5. Optional Parmesan Finish: If desired, remove the pan from heat and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot beans. Toss lightly until melted and combined for an irresistible cheesy crust.
  6. Serve Immediately: For the best crunchy bite and vibrant flavor, serve Crack Green Beans hot and fresh right out of the pan.

Notes

  • Dry green beans thoroughly to avoid sogginess and promote crispiness.
  • Cook on medium-high heat to develop fast, even crisping without overcooking.
  • Do not crowd the pan; keep beans in a single layer for the best texture.
  • Season immediately after cooking for maximum flavor absorption.
  • Experiment with different oils like avocado or coconut oil to change flavor profile and crispiness.
  • Leftover beans can be refrigerated up to 2 days in an airtight container but are best enjoyed fresh.
  • Reheat in a hot skillet or air fryer to restore crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: crack green beans, crispy green beans, quick side dish, spicy green beans, savory green beans, healthy snack