Crisp Pickled Green Beans

These crunchy beans are free of harsh acidity and inappropriate sweetness, not too hot or pungent. Their fresh greenness is set off by a touch of dill, the warmth of a little red pepper. Serve as a nibble with vodka drinks or with cheese, or as a relish at picnics.

For putting up average-sized beans, we like straight-sided, wide-mouthed 12-ounce canning jars, each of which will accommodate about 20 beans without kinks or crowding. If you’re lucky enough to have tiny beans to pickle,