Save This garlic green bean almondine has become my go-to side dish for everything from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The combination of crisp green beans, golden almonds, and bright lemon is simple yet always impressive. It is a recipe that brings a French bistro feel right to my table in less than half an hour.
I started making green bean almondine to liven up holiday meals but now it’s one of our most-requested weekend sides The balance of garlic and lemon is so crave-worthy we rarely have leftovers
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans: Provide crisp texture and a fresh green flavor Look for firm beans with no blemishes or brown spots
- Garlic: Brings savory depth and aromatic richness to the butter base Use freshly minced cloves for the best punch
- Sliced almonds: Add crunch and subtle nuttiness Toast them for maximum flavor and always use unsalted if you can
- Unsalted butter: Creates the rich French base Choose real butter for authentic results
- Olive oil: Enhances the flavor and helps keep the butter from burning Choose a fruity extra virgin variety
- Kosher salt: Amplifies all the flavors and helps season the beans evenly
- Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and complexity Use coarse ground for the most bite
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens up the whole dish Roll the lemon before juicing to get the most out of it
- Lemon zest: Adds floral notes and a pop of color Zest before juicing so it is easy to handle
Instructions
- Blanch and Ice the Beans:
- Trim your beans and bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil Drop in the beans and cook for three or four minutes until they are brilliant green and just tender Drain immediately and place into an ice water bath to lock in that color and stop the cooking Then dry them thoroughly with towels
- Toast and Remove the Almonds:
- Melt your butter with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add your sliced almonds and stir constantly for a couple of minutes until you see a rich golden color Use a slotted spoon to scoop them out fast so they do not keep browning Set the almonds aside
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to your pan and cook briefly for about thirty seconds You want to smell the aroma but do not let it brown or it could turn bitter
- Toss in the Green Beans:
- Move the drained beans into the skillet and toss with the garlicky butter Let them cook and warm through for a couple minutes so every piece gets coated
- Finish With Seasonings and Lemon:
- Season everything with kosher salt and cracked pepper Squeeze in your fresh lemon juice and toss thoroughly so the flavor brightens at the end
- Top With Almonds and Lemon Zest:
- When you are ready to serve sprinkle the reserved toasted almonds over the top and finish with lemon zest if you like This adds both crunch and a burst of color
Save My favorite ingredient has to be those crunchy toasted almonds as the kitchen fills with their aroma I am always reminded of the first time I made this for my grandmother and how delighted she was by the nostalgic French flavors My family now insists this dish makes every meal feel special
Storage Tips
Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days The green beans may soften slightly but the flavor is still fantastic For best results reheat in a skillet over medium heat to return the beans close to their original texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to make the recipe dairy free swap the butter for more olive oil or a high quality dairy free butter substitute For a nut free version try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch Haricots verts French green beans make a more delicate and elegant alternative
Serving Suggestions
Serve this alongside roast chicken steak or a simple salmon fillet It is also gorgeous as a holiday side nestled among mashed potatoes and gravy For a pop of color add halved cherry tomatoes just before serving
Cultural Roots
Green bean almondine takes inspiration from the classic French preparation amandine In French kitchens this technique is used to finish vegetables and fish with butter browned almonds and fresh herbs It is a timeless way to add character and complexity to simple produce and has been a favorite at my family’s holiday table for years
Save This simple almondine recipe never fails to impress on any occasion. With fresh, crisp green beans and a punch of garlic it brings a bit of French comfort to every table.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How do you keep green beans crisp and bright?
Blanching green beans briefly and shocking them in ice water preserves their vibrant color and crisp texture before sautéing.
- → Can I substitute haricots verts for green beans?
Yes, haricots verts can be used for a more delicate texture and quicker cooking, maintaining the dish's classic qualities.
- → What’s the best way to toast almonds evenly?
Stir sliced almonds constantly in melted butter over medium heat until golden, then remove promptly to prevent burning.
- → Is this dish suitable for dairy-free diets?
Absolutely! Simply use all olive oil or a vegan butter substitute to make the preparation entirely dairy-free.
- → What proteins pair well with green bean almondine?
Serve alongside roasted meats, poultry such as chicken, or fish for a balanced, flavorful meal complement.
- → Can I add extra spice to the dish?
Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic brings gentle heat and extra depth of flavor.