Green Beans Almondine Recipe
If you’re searching for a side dish that’s equal parts elegant, vibrant, and effortless, Green Beans Almondine is the answer. This French classic transforms humble green beans into something irresistibly special, with toasted almonds adding crunch and butter lending just the right touch of richness. The result? Tender-crisp beans tossed with nutty, lemony goodness that feel right at home on both weeknight dinner tables and holiday spreads alike. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll make on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Green Beans Almondine shines because it lets each ingredient truly sparkle. Every element on this short list plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and color—the secret is in their quality and the loving little steps you’ll take!
- Fresh green beans: Choose beans that are vibrant in color, firm, and free of blemishes for best crunch and flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds sumptuous richness and lets you control the saltiness of the finished dish.
- Olive oil: Combines with butter for a lighter, more nuanced sauté and keeps the almonds from burning.
- Sliced almonds: Bring nutty flavor and irresistible crunch—don’t skip toasting them for the best results.
- Garlic cloves: Just enough minced garlic to fragrant the beans without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Lemon juice: A splash brightens everything and balances the butter’s richness.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning each layer and making those fresh flavors pop.
- Black pepper: A bit of pepper brings gentle warmth and depth.
- Lemon zest & chopped parsley (optional for garnish): These finishing touches add color and a burst of freshness for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
How to Make Green Beans Almondine
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Drop in your trimmed green beans and let them cook for just 2 to 3 minutes, until they become a brilliant shade of green and are barely tender. As soon as they hit that perfect color, scoop them into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking and helps the beans keep their beautiful crunch and hue. Drain thoroughly and set them aside—you’re off to a great start already!
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
Set a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter together with the olive oil. When the butter begins to foam, add the sliced almonds and stir frequently. Toast the almonds for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn. You want them golden and fragrant—they’re the shining stars of Green Beans Almondine, so give them your full attention here!
Step 3: Sauté Garlic & Combine
Add the minced garlic right to your skillet with the toasted almonds and let it cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds—just until its fragrance blooms. Then, add the blanched green beans to the pan. Toss everything to coat the beans in garlicky, buttery almond goodness. Sauté for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the beans are heated through and still tender-crisp.
Step 4: Season & Finish
Take the skillet off the heat and squeeze in the lemon juice, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss well so every bean is evenly seasoned. For that final flourish, shower with lemon zest and chopped parsley, if you like. Serve your Green Beans Almondine warm and bask in the compliments!
How to Serve Green Beans Almondine
Garnishes
Garnishing isn’t just about looks—it wakes up all your senses! A bit of lemon zest amplifies the freshness, while a sprinkle of chopped parsley brings lively color and herbal flavor. Sometimes, I even add an extra handful of toasted almonds on top for extra texture. Don’t be shy: a fresh garnish truly elevates your Green Beans Almondine from classic to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This stunning vegetable dish pairs beautifully with just about everything. Try it alongside roast chicken, seared salmon, or juicy pork chops. On the holiday table, it’s a welcome, lighter contrast to hearty fare like mashed potatoes and stuffing. And since it’s gluten-free and vegetarian, Green Beans Almondine is a safe bet for serving a crowd with diverse diets.
Creative Ways to Present
You don’t have to stick to a basic serving bowl! When you really want your Green Beans Almondine to shine, pile them high on a long platter or in a shallow dish so those glistening almonds are front and center. Or arrange the beans in neat bundles tied with a blanched scallion for a festive touch—perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (trust me, it’s rare!), cool your Green Beans Almondine to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay crisp and delicious for up to 3 days—making tomorrow’s lunch or weeknight meal prep all the easier.
Freezing
While you technically can freeze this dish, the green beans may lose their snappy texture upon thawing, and the almonds could get soft. If you absolutely must freeze, do so before adding the almonds and garnishes, then re-toast almonds before serving for best crunch.
Reheating
To reheat, simply add the beans and almonds back to a skillet with a touch of butter or oil over medium heat. Toss gently until warmed through, and finish with a splash of fresh lemon juice to revive the flavors. Try to avoid the microwave—the stovetop method keeps your Green Beans Almondine at their best.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh gives optimal flavor and crunch, frozen green beans can be a great time-saver. Just thaw and drain well, then proceed with blanching for a minute less to ensure they stay crisp.
What’s the difference between almondine and amandine?
There’s actually no difference—“amandine” is simply the French term, while “almondine” is the Anglicized version. Both refer to dishes prepared with almonds, often toasted and served atop vegetables or fish.
Is Green Beans Almondine gluten-free?
Yes, it naturally is! All ingredients in this classic recipe are gluten-free, so it’s a safe and tasty choice for anyone avoiding wheat or gluten in their diet.
Can I make Green Beans Almondine ahead of time for entertaining?
You bet! You can blanch the green beans a day in advance and refrigerate them, then quickly sauté with the almonds and butter just before serving to keep everything vibrant and fresh.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Simple! Swap the butter for a vegan butter or use all olive oil. You’ll still have those signature nutty, toasty flavors that make this dish so special.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy way to bring restaurant-worthy vegetables to your table, Green Beans Almondine is it! Give this recipe a try for your next gathering or cozy family dinner—you might just find yourself making it every week. Enjoy every crunchy, lemony, buttery bite!
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Green Beans Almondine Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Green Beans Almondine is a classic French side dish featuring crisp green beans sautéed with buttery almonds and aromatic garlic, finished with a hint of lemon. This elegant yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Green Beans Almondine:
- 1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅓ cup sliced almonds
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- juice of ½ lemon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- lemon zest and chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and transfer to an ice bath. Drain again and set aside.
- Sauté Almonds and Garlic: In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add almonds and toast until golden brown. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Cook the Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and sauté until heated through and tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon zest and parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can blanch the green beans a day in advance and store them in the fridge to save time.
- Toasting the almonds first brings out their flavor—don’t skip it!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
