If you’re searching for a show-stopping summer side, French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette will absolutely delight your table. This vibrant dish cleverly combines the snappy freshness of haricots verts with the juicy sweetness of grilled peaches, all tossed in a tangy almond vinaigrette that ties everything together. There’s just enough crunch from toasted almonds and a layer of flavor from Dijon, honey, and shallots that keeps you coming back for another bite. Elegant enough for entertaining but quick enough for a weeknight dinner, this salad is a celebration of color, texture, and pure joy on a plate.

French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You will be amazed at how a handful of simple, fresh ingredients can create a dish this beautiful and memorable. Each component serves a special purpose—whether it’s adding crunch, pops of color, or layers of flavor—that makes French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette truly irresistible.

French green beans (haricots verts): Their slender shape and snappy texture hold up beautifully when blanched and dressed.
Ripe peaches: Choose firm-yet-fragrant peaches for easy slicing and even caramelization on the grill.
Olive oil: Used twice—first for grilling peaches, then for that luscious vinaigrette to bring everything together.
Sliced almonds: Toast these just until golden for a deeply nutty crunch throughout the salad.
Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the vinaigrette and adds a subtle, sophisticated tang.
White wine vinegar: Lifts the flavors with gentle acidity without overpowering the fruitiness of the peaches.
Honey: Sweetens the vinaigrette and balances the tartness of the vinegar.
Shallot: Use a small, finely minced shallot for a mellow onion flavor that won’t overwhelm.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go so everything is perfectly balanced.
Fresh thyme leaves (optional): For a finishing touch, sprinkle some leaves for a pop of green and herbal aroma.

How to Make French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette

Step 1: Blanch the French Beans

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rapid boil. Add the trimmed French green beans and cook them for 2–3 minutes, just until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to lock in that gorgeous color and stop any further cooking. Once chilled, drain well and gently pat the beans dry with a clean towel—this will help your vinaigrette cling rather than slip right off!

Step 2: Grill the Peaches

While your beans chill, toss the peach wedges with one tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage caramelization. Fire up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and arrange the peach slices in a single layer. Grill each side for about 1–2 minutes, just until the peaches develop light char marks and a deep aroma. Carefully set aside so they keep their shape until it’s time to assemble.

Step 3: Toast the Almonds

Next, take a dry skillet and scatter in the sliced almonds. Toast them over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 2–3 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden color and nutty fragrance—but don’t walk away, as they can turn from toasted to burnt quickly. Set the almonds aside once they’re perfectly golden.

Step 4: Whisk the Almond Vinaigrette

Grab a small bowl and whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, honey, and finely minced shallot. This emulsifies into a rich, tangy vinaigrette. Season it generously with salt and pepper, then taste and adjust—every batch of Dijon and vinegar is a little different, so trust your palate here.

Step 5: Toss and Assemble

Place your thoroughly dried beans in a large serving bowl. Drizzle over the almond vinaigrette and toss gently, making sure every bean is evenly coated. Arrange the grilled peach slices artfully on top, then scatter your golden toasted almonds all over. If you’re feeling fancy, finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves for that unmistakable aromatic lift.

How to Serve French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette

Garnishes

To make your French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette absolutely pop, I love adding a final touch of fresh thyme leaves—just a light hand for aroma, not to overpower. A quick zest of lemon or tiny crumbles of goat cheese or feta are also fantastic if you’re craving a bit more decadence. Serve the dish slightly warm or let it come to room temperature for max flavor.

Side Dishes

This vibrant side shines alongside so many main courses. Try it with grilled chicken, roast fish, or as a bright counterpoint to richer vegetarian mains like quiche. For summer feasts, it works wonders paired with herby potato salad, fresh bread, or even a cool gazpacho. You’ll love how French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette elevates even the simplest spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, serve the salad on a large platter so each colorful component is distinct and inviting. Layer the beans first, then fan out the grilled peaches, and finish with a dramatic scatter of almonds and herbs. For parties, try serving it in individual cups or small jars for a grab-and-go appetizer. No matter your style, French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette always looks gourmet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got a bit left over? Store your French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The beans and peaches hold up well, though the almonds will soften a bit—still delicious for a quick lunch or picnic the next day.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this dish as the texture of the beans and peaches can suffer, and the vinaigrette may separate. If you must, freeze the blanched beans alone (not dressed), but French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette really is best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

This salad sings at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warm, just let it stand out of the fridge for 20–30 minutes before serving. If you must rekindle its warmth, do so very gently: pop the beans and peaches (without almonds) in a low oven for a few minutes or briefly in the microwave, then re-toss and finish with fresh toppings.

FAQs

Can I substitute nectarines for peaches?

Absolutely! Nectarines offer a similar sweetness and outstanding texture, and they grill up beautifully in this French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette recipe. Choose ones that are just ripe and slightly firm for the best results.

What protein can I add to make this a main dish?

Grilled chicken, seared halloumi, or a generous crumble of goat cheese or feta will instantly make French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette a more filling, standalone meal. Salmon is another delicious (and fancy!) option.

Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?

Yes, you can whisk together the vinaigrette a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Give it a good stir or shake before using to recombine the oil and vinegar for your French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette.

Is there a nut-free alternative for the almonds?

If you have nut allergies, try toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch, or simply omit the nuts—the dish will still be packed with flavor and texture. French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette is very forgiving and customizable.

What can I do if I don’t have a grill?

A grill pan or even a hot cast-iron skillet will give your peach slices those pretty char marks and soft, caramelized edges. If you’re in a pinch, broil them quickly in the oven under high heat, watching carefully so they don’t burn.

Final Thoughts

Once you make French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette, it’s bound to become your go-to summer salad. It’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and share this vibrant creation with friends and family soon!

French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

French Beans with Grilled Peach and Almond Vinaigrette is a delightful side dish that combines the crisp freshness of French green beans with the sweet juiciness of grilled peaches, all brought together with a flavorful almond vinaigrette. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light and tasty addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

French Green Beans:

8 oz French green beans (haricots verts), trimmed

Grilled Peaches:

2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges

Almond Vinaigrette:

2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1 small shallot, finely minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Blanch the French Beans: Blanch the French beans in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Pat dry.
Grill the Peaches: Toss peach wedges with 1 tablespoon olive oil and grill over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly charred. Set aside.
Toast the Almonds: Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, about 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
Make the Vinaigrette: Whisk together the remaining olive oil, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, honey, and minced shallot. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble: In a serving bowl, gently toss the blanched beans with the vinaigrette. Top with grilled peaches and toasted almonds. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.