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In recent years, the art of pickling has experienced a remarkable resurgence as home cooks embrace the joys of preserving seasonal produce. The process of pickling not only enhances the flavors of fruits and vegetables but also allows home chefs to savor their favorite tastes year-round. One delightful addition to this culinary trend is zesty crunchy dilly beans. These vibrant green beans, infused with a zesty brine, provide a crisp and tangy treat that can elevate any meal—from salads to charcuterie boards, or even enjoyed straight from the jar.

5-Min Dilly Beans Recipe Treats

Discover the art of pickling with this delicious zesty crunchy dilly beans recipe! Perfect for preserving fresh green beans, this easy-to-follow guide will take you through the steps of creating a vibrant, tangy snack. Packed with flavor and health benefits, these dilly beans can enhance salads, charcuterie boards, or be enjoyed straight from the jar. Learn to customize your brine and savor the satisfaction of homemade pickles year-round. Perfect for both novice picklers and seasoned chefs!

Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cleaned

1 cup distilled white vinegar

1 cup water

2 tablespoons kosher salt

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

4 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled

2 teaspoons dill seeds

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy twist)

1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

2-3 sprigs of fresh dill (optional for added flavor and visual appeal)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Green Beans: Begin by rinsing the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the ends to get a clean look. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Blanch the green beans in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they achieve a vibrant bright green color. To stop the cooking process, quickly transfer the beans into a bowl filled with ice water. After a few minutes, drain the beans and set them aside.

    Make the Pickling Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the distilled white vinegar, water, kosher salt, granulated sugar, smashed garlic, dill seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), black peppercorns, and mustard seeds. Stir the mixture over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil, making sure the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Allow the brine to simmer for a couple of minutes for the flavors to meld.

      Pack the Jars: In sanitized canning jars, tightly pack the blanched green beans in an upright position. If you're including fresh dill sprigs, distribute them evenly among the jars, tucking them alongside the beans for infused flavor.

        Pour in the Brine: Carefully ladle the hot pickling brine over the green beans in each jar, ensuring that the beans are completely submerged in the liquid. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jars to allow for expansion during cooling.

          Seal and Store: Using a clean cloth, wipe the rims of the jars to remove any residue or spills. Secure the jars with lids, pressing them tightly to create a good seal. Allow the jars to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, store the jars in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to let the flavors develop (though they will taste even better after a couple of days!).

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 48 hours (including refrigeration time) | Makes 4 servings

              - Presentation Tips: Serve the zesty dilly beans as a colorful addition to a charcuterie board or as a refreshing side to your favorite summer meals. Garnish with extra dill sprigs for an attractive touch!