Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is quick, healthy, and full of natural flavor. The green beans are cooked just enough to retain their snap and bright color, while the almonds add a toasty, nutty finish. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a side that feels fancy but is easy enough for everyday cooking. Plus, it pairs beautifully with everything from roast chicken to grilled fish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh green beans, trimmed
• Sliced or slivered almonds
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice or zest (optional, for brightness)

Directions

1. Toast the almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the green beans: In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the trimmed green beans and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are crisp-tender and slightly blistered.
3. Add garlic (optional): If using garlic, add it in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking and sauté until fragrant.
4. Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finish and serve: Return the toasted almonds to the pan and toss to combine. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a bit of zest if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 15–20 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Garlic butter version: Use butter and minced garlic for a rich, savory twist.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the beans.
• Balsamic finish: Drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze or vinegar for extra depth.
• Parmesan topping: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan just before serving for a cheesy finish.
• Dried cranberries: Add a handful for a sweet contrast to the toasted almonds.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, sauté gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave briefly. The almonds may soften slightly but will still add flavor.

FAQs

Do I need to blanch the green beans first?

No, blanching isn’t necessary for this quick sauté method. The beans stay bright and crisp without it.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

How do I keep the beans crisp?

Don’t overcook them—sauté just until crisp-tender. A quick cooking time helps preserve their texture.

Can I use whole almonds?

Yes, just chop them roughly before toasting for better distribution.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, if made with olive oil instead of butter, this dish is completely vegan.

Can I make it ahead?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the beans and almonds ahead. Reheat gently before serving.

What type of almonds should I use?

Slivered or sliced almonds work best for quick toasting and even crunch.

Can I use other nuts?

Yes, toasted walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts are great alternatives.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with chicken, steak, salmon, pork chops, or vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or grain bowls.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, thinly sliced shallots, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions.

Conclusion

Sautéed green beans with almonds is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings freshness, crunch, and a touch of elegance to any meal. With just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s a dependable favorite for everyday dinners and special occasions alike. Add it to your rotation for a side that’s healthy, tasty, and always satisfying.

Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds

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Sautéed green beans with almonds is a crisp, vibrant side dish featuring tender green beans and toasted almonds. It’s a quick, elegant recipe that adds texture and flavor to any meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéed
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup sliced or slivered almonds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Add the green beans and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender and slightly blistered.
3. If using, add garlic in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking and sauté until fragrant.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Return the toasted almonds to the pan and toss to combine. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a bit of zest, if desired.
6. Serve warm.

Notes

• Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the beans—they should remain slightly crisp.
• Olive oil keeps the dish vegan, while butter adds richness.
• Add red pepper flakes for heat or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
• Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored and gently reheated.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg