Green Bean Almondine is a classic French side dish that features tender green beans sautéed with almonds and finished with a touch of lemon. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also adds a delightful crunch and flavor to any meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a complement to grilled meats.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Timing

Preparing Green Bean Almondine takes about 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

1. Trim the Beans: Wash and trim the ends of the green beans. If desired, cut them into smaller pieces (about 2-3 inches long).

Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Blanch: Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
3. Ice Bath: Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Almonds

1. Toast Almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Green Beans

1. Heat Butter and Oil: In the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, tossing to coat them in the butter and garlic.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

1. Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Add Almonds: Gently fold in the toasted almonds.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Enjoy Warm: Serve immediately as a delightful side dish!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Green Bean Almondine (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	4g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	4g

Tips for Customization

• Add Other Nuts: Feel free to substitute or mix in other nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.
• Include Other Vegetables: You can add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Green Bean Almondine pairs well with:

• Roasted or grilled meats such as chicken, beef, or fish.
• Grain dishes like rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Green Beans: Be careful not to overcook the green beans during blanching; they should remain crisp.
2. Skipping the Ice Bath: The ice bath is crucial for maintaining the vibrant color and crisp texture of the beans.
3. Not Toasting the Almonds: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor, so don’t skip this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Green Bean Almondine is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

In just about 20 minutes, you can create Green Bean Almondine, a simple yet elegant side dish that adds flavor and texture to your meal. With its bright green beans, crunchy almonds, and zesty lemon, this recipe is sure to impress!

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the green beans and almonds ahead of time and sauté them just before serving.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes! If using frozen green beans, just blanch them for a shorter time until heated through.

What can I substitute for almonds?

You can use any nut you prefer or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely! A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or feta cheese can add a delicious salty flavor to the dish.