Start by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). This ensures it’s hot enough to give the green beans that perfect crispy edge.
Trim the ends off the green beans and pat them thoroughly dry with a kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up better.
Place the green beans into a small bowl, then drizzle with olive oil. Toss them gently with tongs or your fingers until evenly coated, feeling the slight slickness and seeing a shiny surface.
Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon zest to the bowl. Toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly over all the beans.
Spread the seasoned green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even roasting and crisping.
Cook the beans for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through. You’ll hear a gentle sizzle, and the beans will start to look vibrant green with some browned edges.
Check the green beans—they should be tender with crispy, caramelized edges and a smoky aroma filling your kitchen. If they need a little more crunch, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Remove the green beans from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula, and transfer to a serving dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them for extra brightness if desired.
Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy, enjoying the perfect balance of smoky flavor, tender interior, and crunchy edges.