Green Beans Almondine is the epitome of simplicity meeting elegance. This timeless side dish blends the buttery, nutty flavors of toasted almonds with the vibrant, crisp-tender texture of green beans. Perfect for any meal, this recipe delivers a delightful combination of taste and sophistication without being overly complicated.
Ingredients Overview
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role. Fresh green beans provide a natural crunch and bright flavor, while frozen French-cut green beans offer convenience without sacrificing quality. Butter or margarine adds richness, creating the perfect base for the toasted almonds, which bring a warm, nutty flavor and a satisfying texture. Lemon juice ties everything together, adding a refreshing tang that elevates the dish’s overall profile. Margarine can be substituted for butter for a plant-based option, and frozen beans are an excellent choice for a time-saving alternative.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Fresh green beans should be sliced thinly to achieve a French-style cut, ideal for even cooking and a more refined presentation. To cook, place them in a small pot with boiling salted water, cover, and allow them to simmer until crisp-tender. This texture is key—it ensures the beans retain their freshness and don’t become mushy. If frozen beans are your choice, simply follow the package instructions for consistent results. Drain the beans thoroughly after cooking to remove excess moisture, ensuring they won’t dilute the flavors of the almond-butter mixture.
The toasted almonds are where the magic happens. Begin by melting the butter over low heat in a small skillet, which allows the almonds to brown slowly and evenly. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, as this can impart an unpleasant bitterness. Once the almonds achieve a golden hue and release their nutty aroma, remove the skillet from the heat.
Adding lemon juice to the buttery almond mixture creates a subtle citrusy zing that complements the richness of the butter and the nuttiness of the almonds. Stir the mixture well to ensure the flavors meld seamlessly. Drizzle this over the prepared green beans, tossing gently to coat each bean evenly for a balanced flavor in every bite.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Best practices for slicing green beans:
Use a sharp knife to create uniform slices for even cooking.
Low heat for toasting almonds:
Prevent burning and bitterness by keeping the heat low and stirring frequently.
Adjusting lemon juice:
Add more or less lemon juice based on your personal preference for tanginess.
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, try sliced hazelnuts or pecans for a unique twist.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook the beans and prepare the almond-butter mixture separately, then combine before serving.
How to keep the green beans crisp if serving later:
Slightly undercook them during the initial boiling and finish cooking during reheating.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon for a well-balanced meal. For a comforting combination, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad. Green Beans Almondine also shines in festive holiday spreads, offering a sophisticated touch to the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain freshness, reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently to prevent overcooking the beans or burning the almonds. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can compromise the texture.
Green Beans Almondine is a classic dish that combines simplicity and sophistication in every bite. Its buttery, nutty flavors and crisp-tender green beans make it a versatile addition to any meal. With its straightforward preparation and adaptable flavors, this dish invites creativity, making it a go-to recipe for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons slivered almonds
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
2 lb fresh green beans or two (9-ounce) packages of frozen French-cut green beans
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
If using fresh green beans, slice them thinly into French-style cuts. Place them in a small pot with boiling, lightly salted water. Cover and cook until they reach a crisp-tender texture. For frozen beans, simply prepare according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.
In a small skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the slivered almonds and cook gently, stirring intermittently, until the almonds turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
Drizzle the almond-butter mixture evenly over the prepared green beans. Serve warm as a simple yet elegant side dish.
Green Beans Almondine Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 2 lb fresh green beans or two 9-ounce packages of frozen French-cut green beans
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- If using fresh green beans, slice them thinly into French-style cuts. Place them in a small pot with boiling, lightly salted water. Cover and cook until they reach a crisp-tender texture. For frozen beans, simply prepare according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the slivered almonds and cook gently, stirring intermittently, until the almonds turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
- Drizzle the almond-butter mixture evenly over the prepared green beans. Serve warm as a simple yet elegant side dish.
