Green Beans Almondine: A Delicious and Nutritious Side Dish Recipe

Green beans almondine is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the crispness of fresh green beans with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted almonds. This classic French recipe has roots that trace back to the culinary traditions of the 19th century, where it was often served as a side dish in elegant dining settings. I’ve always been captivated by how this simple yet sophisticated dish can elevate any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive holiday gathering.

People love green beans almondine not just for its exquisite taste and texture, but also for its convenience. It comes together in a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. The vibrant green beans provide a satisfying crunch, while the almonds add a delightful crunch and a hint of buttery richness. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why green beans almondine has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved favorite in kitchens around the world.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Preparing the Green Beans

1. Start by washing the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. This helps to remove any dirt or debris that may be clinging to them. 2. After washing, trim the ends of the green beans. You can do this by simply snapping off the ends with your fingers or using a sharp knife for a cleaner cut. 3. Once trimmed, I like to blanch the green beans to keep them vibrant and crisp. To do this, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 4. Add the green beans to the boiling water and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be bright green and tender-crisp. 5. While the green beans are blanching, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. This will stop the cooking process and help maintain their color. 6. After 3-4 minutes, quickly transfer the green beans to the ice bath using a slotted spoon. Let them sit for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Toasting the Almonds

7. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. You want them to be golden brown and fragrant. 8. Once toasted, remove the almonds from the skillet and set them aside. This step adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the dish.

Cooking the Green Beans

9. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. The combination of these fats will give the green beans a rich flavor. 10. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn. 11. Next, add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. 12. After a few minutes, add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. If you’re using lemon zest, sprinkle it in at this point for an extra burst of flavor. Toss everything together to combine.

Assembling the Dish

13. Once the green beans are heated through and seasoned to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. 14. Transfer the green beans to a serving platter or bowl. 15. Finally, sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top of the green beans. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also makes the dish visually appealing.

Serving Suggestions

16. Green beans almondine is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. I love serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty steak. 17. For a complete meal, consider adding a starch like mashed potatoes or rice to round out the plate. 18. If you want to elevate the dish further, you can garnish with additional lemon wedges or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Tips

19. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 20. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a little more butter to prevent them from drying out.

Final Thoughts

21. Green beans almondine is not only a delicious side dish but also a quick and easy one to prepare. The combination of the tender green beans, nutty almonds, and zesty lemon creates a flavor profile that is sure to impress. 22. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

In summary, Green Beans Almondine is a must-try recipe that beautifully combines the crispness of fresh green beans with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted almonds. This dish not only elevates your meal with its vibrant colors and textures but also offers a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday feast, a weeknight dinner, or a casual gathering, Green Beans Almondine is versatile enough to complement a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled fish. For a twist, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick or incorporating sautéed garlic for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to give it your personal touch. I encourage you to give this Green Beans Almondine recipe a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any variations you decided to make. Cooking is all about creativity and sharing, so let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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