Green Bean Almondine

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Green Bean Almondine for its lightness, elegance, and simplicity. The bright, fresh green beans paired with the rich butter sauce and nutty almonds create a perfect harmony of flavors. The toasted almonds add a delightful crunch, while the lemon juice and fresh parsley brighten up the dish. Whether served with roasted meats or as part of a holiday spread, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

2. Toast the almonds: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast them, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the almonds.

3. Sauté the green beans: Add the cooked green beans to the skillet with the almonds. Toss to coat the green beans in the butter and almonds, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

4. Add the finishing touches: Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

5. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add garlic: For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the skillet when toasting the almonds and sauté until fragrant before adding the green beans.

• Make it vegan: Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter to make this dish vegan-friendly.

• Try different nuts: Swap the almonds for toasted walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

• Add cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or goat cheese over the green beans just before serving for added richness.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter for a subtle kick of heat.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

• Storage: Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent the green beans from becoming overcooked. You can add a small amount of butter to refresh the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but fresh green beans will provide a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw them first and blanch briefly in boiling water.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the green beans and almonds ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat them together in a skillet just before serving.

How do I make this dish spicier?

For a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter when toasting the almonds or drizzle with a bit of hot sauce before serving.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish a bit lighter, reduce the amount of butter or substitute it with olive oil. You can also use less salt to control sodium content.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other vegetables like asparagus or broccoli in place of green beans for a similar preparation.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double or even triple this recipe to serve a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a larger skillet to toast the almonds and sauté the beans in batches if needed.

Conclusion

Green Bean Almondine is a simple yet elegant side dish that brings out the best in fresh green beans. The buttery richness, combined with the crunchy almonds and fresh lemon juice, makes this dish a flavorful addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread, this dish is quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.