Green Bean Almondine is a tasty side dish that brings together crunchy green beans and toasted almonds. It’s bright, fresh, and so easy to make!
This dish always impresses my family. The green beans stay crisp, and the almonds add a fun crunch! Plus, it’s a perfect match for any meal. Enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for their crispness and flavor. If fresh beans aren’t available, frozen green beans work too—just make sure they are thawed and drained!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using a bit more olive oil instead, or substitute with a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Shallots: These provide a milder, sweeter onion flavor. If you don’t have shallots, finely chopped onions or even garlic can be great substitutes, just adjust the quantity as garlic has a stronger taste.
Almonds: Sliced almonds add texture and nuttiness. If you’re looking to change it up, try chopped walnuts or pine nuts. They’ll give a different flavor but will still add that lovely crunch.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish nicely. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is always best for flavor!
How Do You Cook Green Beans Perfectly?
Cooking green beans may seem simple, but getting them perfectly tender-crisp is key! Here’s how:
- Start with salted boiling water! This helps to season the beans while cooking.
- Cook only for 3-4 minutes. They should be bright green and still firm.
- Immediately plunge them in ice water after draining. This stops the cooking process and keeps that beautiful color!
Remember, overcooked beans can become mushy and lose that lovely crunch. Keep an eye on the timing to ensure they are just right!
How to Make Green Bean Almondine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes from start to finish. There’s about 5 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a delicious side dish during busy weeknights or special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Green Beans:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them bright green and just tender but still a little crispy. Once done, drain the beans and quickly plunge them into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps their lovely color. Drain again and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Shallots:
In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the finely chopped shallots. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and translucent. This will add a lovely flavor to the dish!
3. Toast the Almonds:
Next, add the sliced almonds to the skillet. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and toasted. Be careful—almonds can burn quickly so keep an eye on them!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the drained green beans back into the skillet. Toss them carefully to coat with the butter, shallots, and toasted almonds. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through. Keep those beans crisp!
5. Finish It Off:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. This adds a nice tang to balance out the buttery flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the Green Bean Almondine to a serving dish and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful, buttery, and crunchy side dish!
Perfect alongside any main course, this Green Bean Almondine is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen green beans, just make sure to thaw them beforehand and drain any excess water. You can blanch them briefly in hot water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing to achieve the right texture.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the green beans and toast the almonds in advance. Store the green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, quickly sauté everything together and add the lemon juice just before serving to keep everything fresh!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat. You might want to add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to refresh the flavors!
What Other Nuts Can I Use?
If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute sliced almonds with chopped walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish, so feel free to experiment!