Green Bean Almondine is a tasty dish where fresh green beans are cooked until they’re bright and crisp, topped with crunchy almonds and a little butter. It’s delicious and easy to make!
I love how the crunchy almonds add a nice twist to the green beans, making them more fun to eat. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal, and you might even want seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are the star here! Choose beans that are firm, vibrant, and snap easily. If fresh beans aren’t available, you can use frozen ones as a backup. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well first.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the way to go for this recipe since it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option or dairy-free version, try using olive oil or vegan butter instead!
Sliced Almonds: Almonds add great crunch and flavor. If you’re allergic or want a different taste, feel free to substitute with toasted walnuts or pecans. Alternatively, sunflower seeds work well for a nut-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a substitute, but use it sparingly as it has a stronger flavor.
Lemon Juice: The lemon juice is optional but it adds a bright note to the dish. If you don’t have lemon, you can use a splash of vinegar—like balsamic or apple cider—for a different tanginess.
How Do You Keep Green Beans Bright and Crisp?
To achieve perfectly vibrant green beans, blanching is key. This method quickly cooks the beans while preserving their color and crunch. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil salted water in a large pot, then add the green beans.
- Cook for just 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath (bowl of ice water) to stop the cooking process. This helps them stay that beautiful green color!
- Dry the beans well before adding them to the skillet.
This technique not only maintains color but also helps keep the green beans al dente, providing a delightful texture in every bite!
How to Make Green Bean Almondine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This Green Bean Almondine recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans and cook them for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender but still bright green and crisp. Don’t overcook them!
2. Ice Bath:
After boiling, drain the beans in a colander and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and helps keep their vibrant color. Let them sit for a couple of minutes, then drain again and set aside.
3. Toast the Almonds:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced almonds. Cook them while stirring frequently, until they’re golden brown and fragrant—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Watch them closely to avoid burning!
4. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Be careful not to let the garlic burn as it can turn bitter.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to add the drained green beans back into the skillet with the almonds and garlic. Toss everything together gently to make sure the beans are well coated with the buttery mixture.
6. Final Touch:
Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and cook for another 2 minutes, tossing occasionally to heat everything through and blend the flavors. If you like, add a squeeze of lemon juice for a little zing! Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
Once everything is nicely combined, transfer the Green Bean Almondine to a serving dish. Enjoy your delicious and crunchy side dish immediately!
This delightful side dish is the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a great accompaniment for any main course. Enjoy! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen green beans, simply thaw them and drain well before adding them to the skillet. You may want to sauté them a bit longer to ensure they’re heated through.
How Do I Store Leftover Green Bean Almondine?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a little butter to prevent drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Both options will still give the dish a wonderful flavor!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed shallots, chopped herbs like parsley or thyme, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time to keep the beans crisp!
