Green Bean Almondine – A Simple, Elegant Vegetable Side Dish

Green Bean Almondine is a timeless side dish that transforms ordinary green beans into something truly special. Tender-crisp beans are tossed in buttery, toasted almonds with a hint of lemon and garlic — creating a balance of freshness and richness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant holiday meals, this dish pairs beautifully with chicken, fish, or beef.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, bright flavors that complement almost any main dish
• Quick to make — ready in under 20 minutes
• Adds a touch of elegance to weeknight or holiday meals
• Light yet satisfying with buttery crunch from almonds
• Great for meal prep or reheating the next day

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, until they’re bright green and crisp-tender. Drain immediately and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking.
2. Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add sliced almonds and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
4. Combine Everything: Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss well to coat. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Add Almonds and Serve: Return toasted almonds to the skillet and mix gently. Serve warm with an extra sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Make it nut-free: Replace almonds with toasted breadcrumbs or sunflower seeds for similar crunch.
• Add shallots: Sauté thinly sliced shallots along with garlic for deeper flavor.
• Use frozen beans: If using frozen, thaw and pat dry before cooking.
• Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan before serving for a richer flavor.
• Add a hint of spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for best texture, or microwave briefly.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as green beans lose texture when frozen after cooking.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Green Bean Almondine pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted chicken or baked salmon
• Grilled steak or herb-marinated shrimp
• Mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Green Bean Almondine ahead of time?

Yes! Blanch the green beans up to one day ahead and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, sauté the garlic and almonds, then toss everything together to reheat.

What kind of almonds should I use?

Sliced or slivered almonds work best for even toasting. Avoid raw whole almonds as they take longer to cook and don’t blend as well with the beans.

Can I use canned green beans?

Fresh or frozen green beans are strongly recommended. Canned beans are too soft and may break apart during sautéing.

How do I keep the beans bright green?

Blanch them quickly and cool immediately in ice water. This locks in the color and keeps them crisp-tender.

Ready to Make It?

If you’re craving a side that’s fresh, flavorful, and elegant, Green Bean Almondine is your go-to. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet refined enough for special occasions. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest or share it with friends who love effortless, wholesome dishes.

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