Green Beans Almondine

As a lover of fresh vegetables, I often find myself in search of ways to elevate simple sides into something truly memorable. That’s where Green Beans Almondine comes in—this dish is not just a recipe; it’s a symphony of flavors that can transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one. I remember the first time I tasted this delightful combination of tender green beans and crunchy almonds; it was love at first bite! The way the toasted almonds add a nutty crunch to the crisp green beans is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, Green Beans Almondine always seems to make its way to my table, bringing a touch of elegance with minimal effort. The best part? It’s easy to prepare yet impressively sophisticated!

Ingredients for Green Beans Almondine

In crafting the perfect Green Beans Almondine, the ingredients play a vital role. Each one contributes to the overall flavor, texture, and appeal of the dish. The star of the show, the green beans, provides a bright and crunchy base, while the almonds bring in nutty depth. The addition of butter and lemon juice enhances the overall richness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

• ⅓ cup sliced almonds: Toasting these adds a delightful crunch and enhances their flavor, making them a perfect topping for the green beans.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is the fat that brings richness to the dish and helps to cook the almonds to perfection.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed: A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish and adds a refreshing tang.
• 2 pounds green beans, washed and trimmed: Fresh green beans provide crunch and a vibrant green color that makes the dish visually appealing.
• ½ cup water: This helps to steam the beans, making them tender while retaining their vibrant color.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances flavors and ensures the dish is well-seasoned.

Preparation Steps for Green Beans Almondine

Preparing Green Beans Almondine is a straightforward process, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. Follow these steps to whip up a delicious side that will impress your family and friends.

1. Start by toasting ⅓ cup sliced almonds in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Keep an eye on them and stir frequently for about six minutes. The goal is to achieve a light golden color while preventing any burning. You’ll know they’re ready when they release a nutty aroma that fills your kitchen.
2. Once the almonds are toasted, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a small bowl. Now, add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter to the same skillet. As the butter melts, you’ll notice it foaming slightly. Cook it for about three more minutes until the butter turns a light golden brown and develops a nutty fragrance.
3. After the butter is ready, stir in 2 tablespoons lemon juice to the skillet. This will create a flavorful mixture that’s perfect for tossing with your green beans.
4. Next, add 2 pounds green beans along with ½ cup water and ¼ teaspoon salt to the skillet. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about six to eight minutes. The beans should be nearly tender and bright green. If you find they need more time, feel free to cook them a bit longer.
5. Once the beans are tender, remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional three minutes to allow the liquid to evaporate. This step is key to achieving that perfect texture.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and take a moment to admire the vibrant colors of your cooked green beans. Now, toss them with the almond mixture until everything is fully combined. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Taste your creation and season with additional salt if desired. A little extra seasoning can elevate the dish even further.
8. Serve your Green Beans Almondine immediately, and enjoy the crunchy texture from the almonds along with the crisp-tender beans.

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to enhance your Green Beans Almondine experience, here are some valuable tips that can help you make the most of this delightful recipe.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed for up to three days.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the almond mixture separately from the cooked beans to maintain texture. Reheat the beans in boiling water when ready to serve.
• Pairing: Green Beans Almondine pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty grain dish for a complete meal.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.
• Serving Size: This dish serves well as a side for family dinners or elegant gatherings.

Serving Options for Green Beans Almondine

When it comes to serving Green Beans Almondine, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• As a Side Dish: This dish makes a fantastic companion to roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a simple pasta dish.
• Holiday Feasts: Impress your guests with this beautiful side during Thanksgiving or Christmas meals.
• Picnics: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, you can serve Green Beans Almondine chilled or at room temperature.
• Light Lunch: Pair it with a light salad and crusty bread for a refreshing lunch option.
• Seasonal Pairings: This dish shines in the spring and summer when green beans are at their peak freshness, adding a seasonal touch to your table.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a larger batch to have on hand during the week for quick, nutritious meals.

FAQ

Conclusion

The special thing about Green Beans Almondine is how it combines simplicity with elegance, making it a standout side dish for any meal. I encourage you to try making this dish at home; you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how easily you can impress your family and friends. With its delightful crunch and fresh flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Green Beans Almondine

Craving something fresh and elegant? Green Beans Almondine offers a delightful combination of tender green beans and toasted almonds, creating a perfectly balanced side dish. With its nutty crunch and vibrant color, it’s the ultimate addition to any meal. Make this easy recipe tonight and impress your taste buds!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ⅓ cup sliced almonds
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 pounds green beans, washed and trimmed
• ½ cup water
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Toast ⅓ cup sliced almonds in a large skillet over medium-low heat for about 6 minutes. Stir often to prevent them from burning.
2. Once the almonds are lightly golden, add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter and cook for about three more minutes until the mixture has a nutty aroma and the butter is just starting to brown.
3. Transfer the almond mixture to a small bowl and stir in 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Set aside.
4. Add 2 pounds green beans, ½ cup water, and ¼ teaspoon salt to the skillet. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 6-8 minutes, until the beans are nearly tender.
5. Remove the lid and continue to cook for about 3 minutes until the liquid has evaporated.
6. Remove the beans from the heat and toss them with the almond mixture until fully combined. Taste and season with additional salt if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed for up to three days.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the almond mixture separately from the cooked beans to maintain texture. Reheat the beans in boiling water when ready to serve.
• Pairing: Green Beans Almondine pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty grain dish for a complete meal.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.
• Serving Size: This dish serves well as a side for family dinners or elegant gatherings.

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Meet Audrey Hayes

I’m Audrey! I founded Cozy Daily Recipes to help you find joy in the kitchen every single day. I personally test and approve every recipe we publish to ensure it’s worthy of your table. Whether I'm slow cooking a Sunday roast or whipping up a quick lunch, my goal is to make your cooking life easier and more delicious.