Get ready to transform ordinary green beans into a mouthwatering sensation that will have your taste buds dancing! These overnight sweet pickled green beans are not just a side dish – they're a culinary adventure that combines the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and a subtle kick of heat. Whether you're looking to impress at your next gathering or simply want to elevate your snacking game, this incredibly easy recipe will turn humble green beans into a gourmet treat that's impossible to resist.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 clove garlic, sliced
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly, trimming off the stem ends and removing any blemishes. Cut the beans to uniform length, approximately 4-5 inches long to fit comfortably in storage jars.
- In a medium saucepan, combine white vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, and sliced garlic. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Remove the pickling liquid from heat and let it cool for 5-7 minutes until the temperature reduces slightly but remains warm.
- Arrange the prepared green beans vertically in clean, sterilized glass mason jars, ensuring they are packed tightly but not crushed.
- Carefully pour the warm pickling liquid over the green beans, making sure they are completely submerged. Leave approximately 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
- Seal the jars with tight-fitting lids and allow them to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate the pickled green beans for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop and penetrate the beans.
- Once pickled, the green beans will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Serve chilled as a tangy, crisp side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beans: Select crisp, firm green beans at the peak of freshness for the best texture and crunch.
- Sterilize Your Jars: Ensure your glass jars are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to prevent any bacterial growth and maintain food safety.
- Pack Beans Tightly: When arranging beans in the jar, pack them vertically and tightly to maximize flavor absorption and create a visually appealing presentation.
- Temperature Matters: Allow the pickling liquid to cool slightly before pouring to prevent overcooking the beans and maintain their crisp texture.
- Patience is Key: While it's tempting to dig in immediately, letting the beans pickle overnight allows the flavors to fully develop and intensify.
- Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to increase or decrease the heat level to your preference.
- Storage Tip: These pickled green beans will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making them a perfect make-ahead condiment or snack.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
