Classic Green Bean Almondine Recipe

Craving a fresh and vibrant side dish that elevates any meal? Look no further than this Green Bean Almondine recipe. It’s a delightful combination of crisp green beans and toasted almonds, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite proteins. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor, showcasing the natural beauty of fresh ingredients.

Imagine the crunch of perfectly blanched green beans, tossed with nutty almonds and a hint of lemon. This Green Bean Almondine is quick to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor.

A Visual Delight: Green Bean Almondine

Green Bean Almondine stands out as a delightful side dish that combines simplicity with elegance. This dish features vibrant green beans that are freshly blanched to retain their bright color and crisp texture. The addition of toasted almonds introduces a nutty flavor that complements the beans perfectly.

This dish not only pleases the palate but also excites the eyes. Garnished with fresh lemon zest, Green Bean Almondine is a feast for the senses. The bright greens of the beans, the golden-brown almonds, and the vivid lemon zest create an inviting presentation that enhances any meal.

The Fresh Ingredients

The beauty of Green Bean Almondine lies in its minimalistic approach to ingredients. Fresh green beans are the star of the show, providing a refreshing crunch and a gorgeous splash of color on the plate.

Toasted almonds add a delightful texture and rich flavor, elevating the dish to new heights. A touch of butter and a squeeze of lemon juice offer a balanced richness, while the optional lemon zest provides an aromatic finish. Together, these elements create a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Preparation Made Simple

Making Green Bean Almondine is a straightforward process that takes only about 20 minutes. Start by blanching the green beans in boiling salted water to achieve that perfect crisp-tenderness. The quick plunge in ice water halts the cooking, preserving the beans’ vibrant color and crunch.

Next, toast the almonds in melted butter until they are golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch to the dish. Combining the green beans with the toasted almonds, a drizzle of lemon juice, and seasoning completes this elegant side.

Serving Suggestions

Green Bean Almondine is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. It complements roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty steak, adding a fresh and light element to your meal.

This dish can also be served as part of a larger spread for gatherings and celebrations. Its vibrant presentation is sure to impress guests and make any occasion feel special. Consider serving it on a rustic table, accompanied by slices of lemon and a lovely fork, to create an inviting dining atmosphere.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only does Green Bean Almondine taste great, but it’s also packed with nutrition. A serving offers a solid amount of vitamins and minerals from fresh green beans, along with healthy fats from the almonds.

With about 120 calories per serving, this dish can fit seamlessly into a balanced diet, making it a smart choice for health-conscious individuals. It’s light yet fulfilling, making it an ideal side for those looking to enjoy delicious and wholesome meals.

Final Thoughts

Green Bean Almondine is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and elegant presentation. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this dish shines with its vibrant colors and delightful flavors.

Its simplicity makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, proving that elegance doesn’t have to be complicated. Enjoy the burst of flavor and the pleasing aesthetics of Green Bean Almondine at your next meal!

The Perfect Green Bean Almondine Recipe

This Green Bean Almondine is a delicious, light, and nutty side dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. The green beans are crisp-tender, while the almonds add a delightful crunch, perfectly balanced by a touch of butter and lemon zest.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Drain the green beans and add them to the skillet with the toasted almonds. Drizzle with lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve: Transfer the Green Bean Almondine to a serving dish and sprinkle with lemon zest, if using. Enjoy your delicious and elegant side dish!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 120kcal
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 8g