Prepare your green beans by washing and trimming off the ends. It's up to you whether you prefer them whole or cut into shorter lengths.
If you are wanting to blanch the beans, boil a large pot of water and prepare a bowl of ice water. Once the water has come to a roaring boil, blanch the beans for 30 seconds to a minutes and then place in the ice bath.
In a medium saucepan, combine equal parts vinegar and water, along with salt and sugar.
Bring the brine to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Turn off heat. If you had blanch the beans, allow to the brine to cool until about room temperature before pouring over the beans.
Ensure your jars are clean. Wash with hot soapy water.
To each pint jar add garlic and desired spices. I like to add them to the bottom so the beans can help keep them down.
Add the trimmed green beans. Fill them to about half an inch below the rim, leaving enough headspace for the brine to cover the beans completely.
Pour the hot brine (if not blanching) into the jars, making sure it covers the beans entirely while still maintaining the desired headspace.
Seal the jars tightly with their lids and give them a gentle shake to distribute the spices and garlic evenly.
Refrigerate your green beans in the pickling liquid for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to mingle and develop.