Place green beans on a microwave-safe plate with 2 Tablespoons water, cover and microwave for about 2 minutes to slightly soften green beans.
Pour off excess water and pat dry. The green beans will be hot. Using tongs, toss them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Air Fryer Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 390 °F for 3 minutes.
Cook for about 7 minutes shaking the air fryer basket halfway through.
Oven Instructions
Preheat oven to 450 °F. For best results, preheat the baking sheet too.
Place green bean fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Cook for about 10 minutes, tossing halfway through.
Notes
Air Fryer Notes
It's best to preheat the air fryer for 3 minutes at 390°F. This will jump start the cooking process. If you don't take this step, then add a few minutes to the total cook time.
We have a Ninja 4 Quart Air Fryer which is perfect for 1 lb. of green beans. If you're making a larger quantity, then roast in batches, use the oven method or buy a bigger air fryer!
Most likely, the green beans will overlap or pile on top of each other. That's okay as long as you shake the basket periodically so that all the beans have a chance to touch the crisper plate for a minute or two. For better uniformity, cook them in a single layer, which may mean you need to cook them in batches.
Other Notes
If using French green beans, then it may take less cook time.
Beans can be trimmed and blanched a day ahead of time, but should be roasted just before serving for best results.