Green Beans Almondine
Green Beans Almondine
A classic French-inspired side dish featuring crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds and a buttery garlic-lemon sauce. Elegant yet simple, it pairs perfectly with poultry, beef, or seafood.
Ingredients
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1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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1/4 cup sliced almonds
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
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1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
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Optional: lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
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Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry.
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Toast Almonds: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add sliced almonds and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove almonds and set aside.
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Cook Green Beans: In the same skillet, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add green beans and toss to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
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Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in toasted almonds and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.
Equipment
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Large pot
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Colander
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Large skillet
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Knife and cutting board
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Spatula or tongs
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Ice bath bowl (optional)
Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size
Serves 4
Green Beans Almondine
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula or tongs
- Ice bath bowl (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
- Optional: lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry.
- Toast Almonds: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add sliced almonds and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Remove almonds and set aside.
- Cook Green Beans: In the same skillet, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add green beans and toss to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in toasted almonds and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes. Thaw and drain frozen green beans before sautéing. Cook briefly to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Blanch the green beans and toast the almonds ahead, then quickly sauté and finish just before serving.
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes. Sliced or slivered pecans or walnuts work well for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
How do I keep the green beans crisp-tender?
Blanch briefly in boiling water, then immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Sauté lightly.
Can I add other seasonings?
Yes. A pinch of red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance flavor.
Can I roast the almonds in the oven instead?
Yes. Spread almonds on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a larger skillet or sauté in batches to ensure even cooking.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes. Use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative in place of butter.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes. It can be served chilled as part of a salad or buffet, but flavor and texture are best when served warm.
How To Store Green Beans Almondine
Refrigerator:
Store cooled green beans in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying.
Freezer:
Freezing is not recommended, as green beans can become mushy upon thawing.
Serving Tips:
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Pair with roasted meats, chicken, or fish for a classic side dish.
