Green Beans Almondine is a simple yet elegant French-inspired side dish that pairs tender-crisp green beans with nutty, toasted almonds. The dish is finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice and a hint of garlic, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s a versatile accompaniment, perfect for holiday meals or weeknight dinners, and adds a sophisticated touch without much effort. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the green beans while giving them a rich, buttery flavor, making it an instant favorite on any table.
Green Beans Almondine Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
- Blanch the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again after 1-2 minutes and set aside.
- Toast the almonds: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and cook, stirring often, until they become golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
- Sauté the garlic: Once the almonds are toasted, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add the green beans: Toss the drained green beans into the skillet with the almonds and garlic. Stir well to coat the beans in the buttery mixture.
- Finish the dish: Drizzle the lemon juice over the green beans and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the beans are heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the green beans almondine to a serving dish, garnish with lemon zest if desired, and serve warm.
Enjoy this classic side dish with roasted meats, fish, or as a part of a vegetarian meal!
