Green Beans Almondine

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms plain green beans into a sophisticated dish with minimal effort. The toasted almonds provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the crisp-tender beans, while the lemon and butter add freshness and richness. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and pairs well with everything from roasted meats to fish or vegetarian meals.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/3 cup sliced almonds

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: lemon zest for garnish

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

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

3. Drain and immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry.

4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

5. Add sliced almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

7. Add green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in butter and almonds.

8. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

9. Remove from heat, stir in fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.

10. Garnish with lemon zest if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation and cooking take about 20 minutes.

Variations

• Substitute walnuts or pecans for almonds.

• Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

• Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor.

• Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Green Beans Almondine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but blanch fresh or thaw frozen beans before cooking.

How do I keep almonds from burning?

Cook almonds over medium heat, stirring frequently and removing promptly once golden.

Can I prepare this dish ahead?

You can blanch green beans ahead and finish cooking just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

How do I keep green beans crisp?

Blanch briefly and shock in ice water to preserve texture.

Can I add garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is preferred for flavor, but garlic powder can be used sparingly.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

How do I store leftovers?

In an airtight container in the fridge, consume within 2 days.

Can I add other nuts?

Walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts work well as alternatives.

What pairs well with Green Beans Almondine?

Roasted chicken, fish, steak, or vegetarian mains complement this dish.

Conclusion

Green Beans Almondine is a classic, elegant side dish that elevates simple green beans with crunchy almonds and bright lemon flavors. Quick and easy to make, it adds a delicious, nutritious, and visually appealing touch to any meal. Whether for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a timeless favorite.

Green Beans Almondine

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Green Beans Almondine is a classic French side dish featuring tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds and a buttery, lemony sauce, offering a perfect balance of crunch and fresh flavors.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Blanching and Sautéing
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
   
   3 tablespoons unsalted butter
   
   1/3 cup sliced almonds
   
   1 clove garlic, minced
   
   1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
   
   Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
   
   Optional: lemon zest for garnish

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

1. Add green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
2. Drain and transfer to ice water to stop cooking; drain and pat dry.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add sliced almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add green beans and toss to coat in butter and almonds.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
8. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, season with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish with lemon zest if desired and serve warm.

Notes

1. Substitute walnuts or pecans for almonds.
2. Add grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
3. Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor.
4. Use olive oil instead of butter for dairy-free version.
5. Add red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
6. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 2 days.
7. Reheat gently in skillet or microwave.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg