If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that feels elegant but comes together in a snap, this Green Beans Almondine Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Bright, crisp green beans meet perfectly toasted almonds in a buttery, garlicky sauce finished with a burst of fresh lemon zest. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that makes every bite fresh and satisfying, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, this recipe elevates humble green beans into something truly special. Each ingredient plays a key role, from adding crunch and richness to layering on vibrant flavors that make this dish shine.
- 1 lbs green beans (or haricots verts, rinsed and trimmed): Crisp, tender beans are the foundation and star of this dish.
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided into 3 Tbsp + 1 Tbsp): Butter brings a silky, rich flavor that perfectly complements the vegetables and nuts.
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds (or sliced almonds): Toasted almonds add delightful crunch and a toasty, nutty taste.
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (or to taste): A subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (plus 1 Tbsp to salt the water): Essential for seasoning the beans and balancing the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses a warm, aromatic savory note.
- 1 1/2 tsp lemon zest (plus more to serve): The zest adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Green Beans Almondine Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans
First, fill a large saucepan about two-thirds full with water and bring it to a rapid boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt along with the green beans to the boiling water. Boil them for 3 to 7 minutes depending on the size of your beans; you want them crisp-tender with a beautiful bright green color. This blanching step locks in their vibrant texture and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Step 2: Shock and Drain
Once your beans are perfectly blanched, immediately drain them in a colander. Rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process instantly—this “shocking” step keeps those beans from getting overcooked and helps maintain their crisp bite. Let them drain completely and set aside for the next step.
Step 3: Toast the Almonds and Build the Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once it starts foaming, add the slivered almonds along with 1/4 teaspoon sea salt and black pepper. Stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the almonds turn a gorgeous golden brown. This step is crucial, so stay attentive—the nuts can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Finish the Sauce
Next, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds just until it becomes fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic, as this keeps the flavors fresh and bright. Turn off the heat, add the remaining tablespoon of butter, then gently fold in the cooled green beans. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Add Lemon Zest and Serve
Finally, grate fresh lemon zest right over the skillet and toss everything together to coat the beans in the buttery, nutty sauce. Transfer your Green Beans Almondine Recipe to a serving platter and drizzle any leftover sauce and almonds from the skillet over the top. Add a little extra lemon zest for garnish to brighten the presentation and flavor. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
How to Serve Green Beans Almondine Recipe
Garnishes
Extra lemon zest adds a stunning pop of color and brightness that ties all the flavors together. You might also sprinkle a few whole toasted almonds on top for a visually appealing crunch. Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley can add a splash of green and a subtle herbal note if you want a little extra flair.
Side Dishes
This Green Beans Almondine Recipe pairs beautifully with almost anything—think roasted chicken, pan-seared fish, or even a holiday ham. Its fresh, buttery quality cuts through richer dishes wonderfully. Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a pilaf to round out your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve the green beans on a long, narrow platter to showcase those golden almonds scattered on top. You could also nestle the beans into individual ramekins for elegant individual servings. Drizzling a touch of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon just before serving adds extra shine and zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Green Beans Almondine Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beans will keep their texture well if you avoid reheating them too long or at too high a temperature.
Freezing
Because of the butter and fresh almonds, freezing is not recommended for this dish. The beans can become mushy and the almonds lose their crunch when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to warm through without overcooking. Adding an extra small pat of butter while reheating helps revive that fresh, buttery flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the green beans limp and chewy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
While fresh green beans give the best texture and flavor for this Green Beans Almondine Recipe, you can use frozen beans if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before starting to avoid excess water in the pan.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free version, good-quality olive oil or vegan butter works nicely. The almonds and garlic still provide great flavor, but the texture and richness will be slightly different.
How do I make the almonds extra crunchy?
Toast the almonds slowly over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You can even toast them separately and add them at the end for maximum crunch.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can blanch the green beans and toast the almonds a few hours ahead. Store them separately, then finish cooking and combine everything right before serving to maintain freshness.
Is lemon zest necessary?
Lemon zest is essential in this dish as it adds a fresh brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the butter and almonds. You can add more or less depending on your taste, but it really makes the recipe pop.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about how a few simple ingredients work together in this Green Beans Almondine Recipe to create a dish that feels special yet effortless. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe will bring bright, buttery, nutty goodness to your table. I certainly hope you give this delightful side a try soon and enjoy every buttery, crunchy bite!
Print
Green Beans Almondine Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Green Beans Almondine is a classic French side dish featuring crisp-tender green beans tossed in a rich butter sauce with toasted slivered almonds, garlic, and fresh lemon zest. This easy, elegant recipe highlights the fresh flavors of seasonal green beans complemented by the nutty crunch of almonds, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lbs green beans (or haricots verts, rinsed and trimmed)
- 1 1/2 tsp lemon zest (plus more to serve)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Pantry Items
- 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)
Instructions
- Boil 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 rinsed, trimmed green beans. Return the water to a boil and cook the beans for 3-7 minutes, depending on their size, until they are crisp-tender.
- Drain and cool: Immediately drain the green beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
- Toast the almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is foaming, add the slivered almonds, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the almonds turn golden and fragrant. Be attentive to prevent burning.
- Sauté the garlic and combine: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown the garlic. Turn off the heat, then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the cooked green beans to the skillet and toss well. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Add lemon zest and serve: Grate fresh lemon zest over the green beans and toss to combine. Transfer the beans along with the almond and butter sauce to a serving platter. Garnish with extra lemon zest and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Timing for boiling green beans varies based on their thickness; thinner haricots verts may take less time.
- Be attentive when toasting almonds to prevent burning, as they cook quickly.
- Freshly grated lemon zest brightens the dish and can be adjusted according to taste.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of tender beans and crunchy almonds.
