Green Bean Almondine is a quick and tasty side dish! Fresh green beans are cooked until tender and tossed with crunchy almonds and a little butter. Simple, yet so flavorful!
This dish looks fancy but is a breeze to make. I love the contrast of the crunchy nuts with the soft beans. It brings a pop of color to any plate—perfect for impressing family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish due to their crisp texture. If fresh beans are unavailable, you can use frozen green beans—just be sure to thaw and drain them first.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter so I can control the salt. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a similar richness.
Sliced Almonds: Almonds add crunch and flavor. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can work well. They will offer a nice crunch too!
Shallots: Shallots provide a milder onion flavor. If you don’t have them on hand, use a small onion or even green onions as a substitute—they’ll add a nice touch.
Lemon Juice: The lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemon, a splash of vinegar can give a nice acidity too.
How Do I Keep Green Beans Crisp and Bright?
To achieve those vibrant green beans that are tender yet crisp, blanching is key! Blanching helps maintain color and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil a pot of salted water first. The salt enhances the color and flavor of the beans.
- Add the beans and cook for just 3-5 minutes. You want them bright and tender but not mushy!
- Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) after draining to stop the cooking process.
This method locks in that fresh green color and keeps the beans crunchy, making your dish look as good as it tastes!
How to Make Green Bean Almondine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Plus, with its quick steps, you can have a colorful and tasty side dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the trimmed green beans. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender but still have a nice crunch. Once done, drain the beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This helps stop the cooking and keeps their vibrant color. After a minute, drain again and set the beans aside.
2. Toast the Almonds:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. When the butter is melted and bubbling, add the sliced almonds. Toast them by stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and smell fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
3. Cook the Shallots and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped shallot and garlic (if you’re using it) to the skillet with the toasted almonds. Cook these for another 1-2 minutes, stirring gently, until the shallots become soft and translucent. This step adds sweetness to your dish!
4. Combine Everything:
Add the drained green beans back into the skillet. Toss everything together so the beans are well coated with the buttery almond and shallot mixture. Cook for 2-3 more minutes to heat the beans through.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’d like a hint of brightness, drizzle a little fresh lemon juice over the top and give it one last gentle toss. Then, transfer your beautifully cooked green bean almondine to a serving dish.
6. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy this elegant, French-inspired side dish that’s sure to impress!
This Green Bean Almondine recipe makes for a tasty accompaniment to any meal while being easy to prepare—perfect for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their table!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish. They may not have the same crunch as fresh ones, but they’ll work in a pinch!
How Do I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make Green Bean Almondine vegan, simply substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, so enjoy without any guilt!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the green beans and almond mixture ahead of time! Just store the components separately in the refrigerator. Reheat the green beans gently, then toss them with the almond mixture before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently on the stovetop; just add a splash of water or broth to help them heat evenly.
