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
Scale
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.
