Ingredients

2 pounds green beans, ends trimmed 

2 cups white-wine vinegar 

2 1/4 cups water 

3 tablespoons coarse salt 

1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns 

3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 

2 garlic cloves, peeled 

1/4 cup fresh dill 

Preparation

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the green beans, and cook until tender but still slightly crisp, 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer beans to a colander, and let drain. Transfer to a heatproof bowl or storage container, and set aside.

Combine vinegar, water, salt, peppercorns, and cayenne pepper in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add garlic and dill, and remove from heat. While still hot, pour vinegar mixture over green beans; let cool slightly. Cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator up to 2 weeks.