Jessica McMillan, Staff Writer

For those who want a savory snack, they may be thinking of french fries. However, the simple green bean can be a healthy substitute for a fried snack while also fulfilling a person’s cravings. I looked through a variety of websites to make a versatile recipe that is adaptable to each student. I viewed websites like Everyday Family Cooking, Spend With Pennies or Simply Air Fryer, each having their own twist on the dish. 

To give a basic overview, I used what I had on hand within my dorm room. I already had garlic salt, pepper and vegetable oil on hand which are the basics of the dish. I added ground red pepper for some heat since I was craving it at that time. The only thing purchased was a small bag of frozen green beans for about $1 at Kroger. Frozen green beans work best because you can put the ones you don’t use in the freezer and they will keep longer. If they were fresh, there would be a bigger chance of it going bad if not used fast enough. 

The recipe itself is simple enough and can be flexible with what you have on hand. For example some students may not have vegetable oil, but you can substitute it for butter or olive oil. Using what you have on hand gives you the opportunity to change the dish into something totally different. For instance if you have bacon bits and cheese in your refrigerator you can add that to get new depths of flavor. However, If you do add bacon then I would be careful with how much salt you add.

The result of the dish was a well-balanced snack or a possible side. The bits of green beans were crispy and salty on the outside while the inside was still juicy. However I do have a warning for making this snack. I wouldn’t go over 12 minutes since you run the risk of the green bean becoming dried out. Not only that, it can cause the snack to be tough and hard to chew when eating.

Ingredients 

• A small bag of frozen green beans (depending on the size of the air fryer, can be just a handful of green beans).
• 1 Tbsp Vegetable oil (or olive oil, butter).
• Salt and pepper to taste (though I used garlic salt).
• Optional: ground red pepper for some heat.
• A small bowl or bag to mix.

Instructions  

1. Preheat the air fryer at 390 F to 400 F.
2. Take a handful of green beans and place them in a small bowl.
3. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the green bean.
4. Grab your seasonings and use them to the point it fits your taste. 
   1. Like for me, I used garlic salt, pepper and ground red pepper. 
5. Mix well or until everything is well incorporated.
   1. Taste one if necessary to balance the flavor out.
6. Place into the air fryer and cook for 10-12.
   1. Depending on how crispy you want it .
7. Half away through, give it a shake 
8. After you taste them, place them in a bowl and start eating! 

Categories: Life