Crispy Vegan Green Bean Air Fryer Recipe | Quick & Healthy

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy green beans, this Vegan Green Bean Air Fryer Recipe is the perfect choice! Packed with flavor, loaded with nutrients, and incredibly easy to prepare, this recipe makes for a versatile side dish that complements any meal. Using the air fryer ensures that the green beans are crispy, tender, and seasoned to perfection—all without the need for excess oil. Whether you’re a vegan, a busy cook, or just looking for a healthy addition to your plate, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Recipe Details:

• Cuisines: American, Vegan
• Course: Side Dish, Appetizer
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: ~80
• Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Active Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Resting Time: 5 minutes

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~80 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Vitamin A: 15% of DV
• Vitamin C: 20% of DV
• Calcium: 4% of DV
• Iron: 6% of DV

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (for a lighter option, use a cooking spray)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or crushed red pepper flakes

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (any model, ideally with a basket or tray-style compartment)
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or a spatula
• Measuring spoons

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Green Beans

• Wash and trim the green beans by snapping off the ends or cutting them with a knife. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Dry green beans are key to achieving a crispy texture in the air fryer.

2. Season the Beans

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the beans are evenly coated in the seasoning. If you’re using nutritional yeast, add it at this stage for an umami boost.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and speeds up the process.

4. Cook the Green Beans

• Place the seasoned green beans in the air fryer basket or tray. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
• Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to promote even crispiness. The green beans should be tender yet crisp, with a lightly browned exterior.

5. Rest and Serve

• Once cooked, remove the green beans from the air fryer and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and prevents overcooking.
• Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with optional parsley or red pepper flakes, and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

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Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Green Beans

• Don’t overcrowd: For optimal crispiness, ensure the green beans are spread out in a single layer.
• Customize seasoning: Add your favorite spices like chili powder, Italian seasoning, or even a drizzle of balsamic vinegar after cooking for variety.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds, like almonds or sesame, on top for added texture.

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Why Choose the Air Fryer for Green Beans?

The air fryer offers a healthier way to cook green beans without compromising on taste. Unlike traditional frying, it uses minimal oil, making the dish lower in fat and calories. Plus, the high-speed air circulation ensures a perfectly crispy texture, which is hard to achieve with steaming or boiling.

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Serving Suggestions

This Vegan Green Bean Air Fryer Recipe pairs well with:

• Main courses: Serve alongside vegan burgers, tofu steaks, or lentil loaf.
• Grains: Add as a topping to quinoa or rice bowls.
• Dips: Enjoy with vegan ranch, hummus, or tahini dressing for a snack-worthy option.

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Variations to Try

1. Spicy Green Beans
   Add a dash of cayenne pepper or sriracha to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
2. Cheesy Green Beans
   Double the nutritional yeast or sprinkle with vegan parmesan cheese after cooking.
3. Asian-Style Green Beans
   Toss the cooked beans with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy: Low-calorie, high-fiber, and packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
• Vegan and gluten-free: Suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different seasonings and flavors.