Green Bean Almondine is a bright and crunchy side dish that pairs fresh green beans with toasted almonds and a dash of lemon. It’s quick to whip up and adds a fancy touch to any meal.
I love how this dish brings color to my table! Plus, those toasted almonds give it a delightful crunch. It’s so simple, I could make it every night—if only my family would let me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are key for this dish. If they’re not in season, frozen green beans can work well too, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before using.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or vegan butter for a similar effect.
Sliced Almonds: Almonds give a nice crunch. You can swap them for other nuts like slivered walnuts or pecans if you prefer. Toasting them is essential for flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic touch. For a milder flavor, you can use garlic powder, but fresh is always better in taste.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of apple cider vinegar can add a tangy twist too.
How Do You Keep Green Beans Crisp and Bright?
The trick to keeping green beans vibrant and crunchy is a quick blanching method! Here’s how:
- First, prepare an ice bath with cold water and ice cubes.
- Boil the green beans in salted water for 3-4 minutes. This makes them tender but not mushy.
- Immediately transfer them to the ice bath. This stops the cooking process, locking in that bright green color.
- Drain the beans well before adding them to the skillet.
Getting this step right makes all the difference for a beautiful, flavorful dish!
Green Bean Almondine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes in total. About 5 minutes will be spent prepping the ingredients and cooking, with a few additional moments for toasting the almonds and mixing everything together. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender. This means they should be tender but still have a slight crunch. After cooking, drain the beans and quickly transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. This ‘shocking’ process stops them from cooking further and keeps their vibrant green color. Drain the beans again and set them aside.
2. Toast the Almonds:
Next, grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the sliced almonds. Toast them by stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and become fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the almonds are toasted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained green beans to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the butter, garlic, and toasted almonds. Heat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until the green beans are warmed through. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully!
5. Season and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze in the fresh lemon juice, giving it a nice zesty kick. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing everything together one last time. Then, transfer your vibrant green bean almondine to a serving dish and enjoy while it’s warm!
This dish is not only simple but adds an elegant touch to any meal, with crunchy almonds and a hint of lemon to brighten up your plate. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just make sure to thaw them first, and you may want to blanch them quickly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before proceeding with the recipe. This way, they’ll be tender but still maintain a nice crunch.
How Should I Store Leftover Green Bean Almondine?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to help retain their texture, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
For the best results, it’s best to prepare the dish fresh. However, you can blanch the green beans and toast the almonds a few hours in advance, then combine everything just before serving to keep them crisp!
What Can I Substitute for Almonds?
If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. If you’re okay with other nuts, cashews or walnuts can also be great substitutes!
