Green Beans Almondine

The first time I made Green Beans Almondine, I was hosting a family dinner, and I wanted to impress everyone with something a little special. I had heard so much about this classic dish, and the combination of crunchy almonds with fresh green beans sounded like a match made in heaven. As I prepared the ingredients, the nutty aroma of toasted almonds filled my kitchen, and I could already envision my family’s delighted faces as they took their first bites. This dish quickly became a staple in my cooking repertoire, a perfect way to elevate any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner.

Green Beans Almondine Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Green Beans Almondine shine. Each component plays a crucial role in the overall flavor profile. The freshness of the green beans is essential; they should be vibrant and crisp. The butter adds richness, while the almonds provide that lovely crunch. Together, these ingredients create a well-rounded dish.

• 1 tablespoon salt: This is used for boiling the beans to enhance their flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds: Provides a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in cooking the almonds and adds healthy fats.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma.
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed: The star ingredient, bringing freshness and color.
• Garlic salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste: Seasoning that elevates the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the dish with a citrusy zing.
• Feta cheese, optional: Adds a creamy texture if desired.

Recipe Steps for Green Beans Almondine

Preparing Green Beans Almondine is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious side dish that will wow your family and friends.

1. Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the salt to the water. This will help flavor the green beans while they cook. Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans to the pot.
2. Boil the green beans for about 4 to 6 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender. You want them to retain their bright green color and a little crunch. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
3. Immediately drain the boiled beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to maintaining their vibrant color and crispness. Set the beans aside once they are cool.
4. In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Allow it to bubble slightly, but be careful not to let it brown. This will add a wonderful richness to your dish.
5. Add the sliced almonds to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 2 to 3 minutes, toasting them until they become golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them; they can burn quickly!
6. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for another minute until it is fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly, so enjoy this moment!
7. Drizzle in the olive oil and give everything a good stir to combine the flavors. The olive oil will enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
8. Now, add the drained green beans back into the skillet. Toss everything together so that the green beans are well coated with the buttery almond mixture. Season with garlic salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with lemon zest. If you’d like, you can sprinkle some feta cheese on top for a creamy contrast. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Make It Your Own

While Green Beans Almondine is delicious on its own, there are so many ways to customize it. Here are some tips to help you make it your own:

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to toss in other veggies like carrots or bell peppers to add color and nutrition.
• Use different nuts: Swap out the almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different flavor and texture.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
• Make it a main dish: Turn this side dish into a main meal by serving it over a bed of quinoa or rice.
• Garnish creatively: Try garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added burst of flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses: Besides feta, try adding parmesan or goat cheese for a different taste.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the green beans before sautéing them. Just blanch them first to preserve color and flavor.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled fish or roasted chicken, making it versatile for varying occasions.

Great Combinations for Green Beans Almondine

Pairing Green Beans Almondine with the right dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great combinations:

• Roasted Chicken: The buttery flavor of Green Beans Almondine complements the savory notes of roasted chicken perfectly.
• Grilled Salmon: The freshness of the fish matches well with the crunchy texture of the beans.
• Steak: Serve alongside a juicy steak for a hearty, balanced meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of this dish.
• Risotto: Pair with a creamy risotto to create a gourmet dining experience at home.
• Holidays: Green Beans Almondine also shines during festive occasions, adding a special touch to holiday tables.
• Picnics: It’s a wonderful dish to bring to a picnic, as it tastes great served cold or at room temperature.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for easy lunches.

FAQ

Conclusion

Green Beans Almondine is a timeless dish that brings elegance and flavor to your table. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home as it has in mine. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!

Green Beans Almondine

The perfect balance of crisp green beans and crunchy almonds, Green Beans Almondine is a delightful side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. This easy-to-make recipe showcases fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion. Try it tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• garlic salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• feta cheese, optional

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the salt to the water. This will help flavor the green beans while they cook. Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans to the pot.
2. Boil the green beans for about 4 to 6 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender. You want them to retain their bright green color and a little crunch. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
3. Immediately drain the boiled beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to maintaining their vibrant color and crispness. Set the beans aside once they are cool.
4. In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Allow it to bubble slightly, but be careful not to let it brown. This will add a wonderful richness to your dish.
5. Add the sliced almonds to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 2 to 3 minutes, toasting them until they become golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them; they can burn quickly!
6. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for another minute until it is fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly, so enjoy this moment!
7. Drizzle in the olive oil and give everything a good stir to combine the flavors. The olive oil will enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
8. Now, add the drained green beans back into the skillet. Toss everything together so that the green beans are well coated with the buttery almond mixture. Season with garlic salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with lemon zest. If you’d like, you can sprinkle some feta cheese on top for a creamy contrast. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• French green beans: are a classic choice, but regular green beans also work well.
• Parboiling: in salt water helps the beans retain a bright green color and adds flavor to the inside of the beans. Cook only to al dente, crisp tender, and do not overboil.
• Make ahead: You can make the dish a few hours before serving and keep it warm in a crock pot.

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.