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Green Beans Almondine Recipe

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4.3 from 4 reviews

This Green Beans Almondine recipe is a classic, elegant side dish featuring tender green beans sautéed with toasted almonds, garlic, and a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for a quick, flavorful addition to any meal, it combines crunchy almonds and buttery garlic-infused goodness with bright citrus notes for a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Green Beans

  • 1 lb green beans (or haricots verts, rinsed and trimmed)

Almondine Sauce

  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided into 3 Tbsp + 1 Tbsp)
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds (or sliced almonds)
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper (or added to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste, plus 1 Tbsp to salt the water)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 1/2 tsp lemon zest (plus more to serve)

Instructions

  1. Blanch the Green Beans: Fill a large saucepan two-thirds full with water and bring it to a rapid boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the green beans. Return to a boil and cook for 3 to 7 minutes depending on the size, until the beans are crisp-tender.
  2. Shock and Drain: Immediately drain the beans in a colander and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once foaming, add the slivered almonds along with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully until almonds turn golden and toasted.
  4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not brown. Turn off the heat.
  5. Finish the Sauce and Combine: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet, then add the drained green beans. Toss to coat evenly with the buttery almond mixture. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add Lemon Zest and Serve: Grate fresh lemon zest over the beans and toss once more to combine everything thoroughly. Transfer the green beans to a serving platter, pour over the skillet sauce and almonds, garnish with extra lemon zest, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Be attentive while toasting almonds as they can burn quickly.
  • Use haricots verts for a more elegant, thinner green bean; adjust boiling time slightly if using thicker green beans.
  • Shocking the beans in cold water maintains their vibrant color and crisp texture.
  • Fresh lemon zest brightens the dish and can be adjusted to taste.
  • This dish is best served immediately to maintain the almond crunch and fresh flavors.