Introduction to Green Beans Almondine
What is Green Beans Almondine?
Green beans almondine (or amandine) is a delightful French side dish that elevates tender green beans with a savory combination of buttery flavors and toasted almonds. Rather than being a complex recipe that intimidates, this dish offers a sophisticated touch without the fuss. It’s all about simplicity: sautéing fresh green beans with shallots and garlic, then finishing the ensemble with crunchy, toasted almonds for that added texture and depth of flavor.
This dish is perfect any time of year, whether you're looking for a light accompaniment to your weeknight dinner or something a bit fancier for a holiday gathering. The harmony of ingredients makes it a versatile choice that pairs well with proteins like baked salmon or rotisserie chicken. The balance of buttery richness and citrus brightness from lemon zest makes green beans almondine a standout on any table.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare. In just about 25 minutes, you can present a beautifully plated dish that tastes gourmet. So, if you’re ready to wow your family at dinner or impress your guests, let's dive into this classic recipe together!
Ingredients for Green Beans Almondine
To make delightful green beans almondine, you'll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to create a stunning dish. Here’s what you'll need:
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning your water for blanching the beans, enhancing their vibrant flavor.
- 1 lb. haricots verts: These tender French green beans are key for that classic look and taste. You can substitute regular green beans if needed—just blanch them a bit longer!
- 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to your dish; be sure to use unsalted for better control over flavor.
- ½ cup raw sliced almonds: Toasting these brings out their nutty flavor, making them the perfect crunchy topping.
- 1 shallot, finely chopped: A great aromatic that elevates the dish with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Essential for that savory punch that pairs beautifully with the green beans.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing note.
- 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice: Balances the richness of the butter and almonds.
- Freshly ground black pepper: A finishing touch that enhances all the flavors.
Feel free to explore variations by adding your favorite herbs or spices! For more delicious ideas, check out these cooking tips on green beans that might inspire you. Happy cooking!
Preparing Green Beans Almondine
Elevate your dinner table with the timeless appeal of Green Beans Almondine. This dish is not just delicious but incredibly simple to make! Follow these steps for an impeccable result that brings a touch of sophistication to any meal.
Bring Salted Water to a Boil
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This is crucial because the salt helps season the green beans while they cook, enhancing their natural flavor. Meanwhile, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water. This ice bath will stop the cooking process quickly, ensuring that the green beans maintain that delightful crispness.
Cook the Green Beans
Once your water is boiling, it’s time to add the haricots verts (or regular green beans, if that’s what you have). Cook the beans for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want them to be crisp-tender—they will continue to cook a bit more when you toss them later, so avoid overcooking right now. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the beans to your ice bath. Let them sit for a couple of minutes, then drain thoroughly. This method retains the vibrant green color and ensures optimal texture.
Prepare the Almond Mixture
In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Once it’s lightly bubbling, add in a half-cup of raw sliced almonds. Stir frequently! You’re looking to achieve that beautiful golden brown color, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes. Next, reduce your heat to low and toss in one finely chopped shallot and two cloves of finely chopped garlic. Cook this fragrant mixture for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine the Green Beans and Almond Mixture
Once your almonds have reached that gorgeous golden hue and the shallots and garlic are aromatic, it's time to welcome back the beans! Add the drained green beans to the skillet, tossing everything together so that the beans are well-coated in the buttery mixture. The warmth from the skillet will finish cooking the beans just perfectly.
Add Lemon Zest and Juice
To brighten the dish, sprinkle in the zest of one lemon and about 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. Toss everything again, seasoning with freshly ground black pepper and any additional salt as desired. The lemon adds just the right zing, balancing the rich flavors of the butter and almonds.
Final Thoughts
Your Green Beans Almondine is now ready to shine on your dinner plate! Whether as a quick weeknight side or a sophisticated addition to your next special meal, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it alongside some baked salmon or a delicious risotto for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy!
Variations of Green Beans Almondine
Green Beans Almondine with Turkey Bacon
For a deliciously savory twist, add turkey bacon to your green beans almondine. Simply crisp up some chopped turkey bacon in the skillet before tossing in the almonds. The smokiness of the bacon adds depth, while still keeping the dish light and festive. This variation is perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch with friends. Serve it alongside a simple salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Spiced Green Beans Almondine
If you’re looking to elevate the flavor profile, consider preparing spiced green beans almondine. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cumin while cooking the shallots and garlic. This not only enhances the dish's warmth, but also makes it more enticing for those extra cozy evenings. Pair these zesty beans with grilled chicken or a hearty legume dish for a balanced, flavorful spread.
For more inspiration, check out our other veggie side dishes like roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed spinach.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Green Beans Almondine
Getting the most out of your green beans almondine is all about technique and timing. Here are a few handy tips to elevate your dish:
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Blanching is Key: Be sure to not skip the ice bath after blanching the green beans. This helps retain their vibrant green color and crisp texture.
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Toast Those Nuts: For maximum flavor, toast your almonds in butter until golden brown, as mentioned in the recipe. This adds a nutty depth that truly shines.
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Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can bring an extra kick to your dish.
Try these tips and watch your green beans almondine become a standout side on any table! For more on cooking techniques, check out Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Green Beans Almondine
When it comes to serving green beans almondine, presentation and pairing are key! This elegant side dish shines best when served fresh, preserving the delightful crunch of the almonds. Here are a few tasty ideas:
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Simple Pairings: Keep it casual by serving your green beans with fluffy rice or any leftover baked salmon or rotisserie chicken. This adds a lovely balance to weeknight dinners.
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Upscale Options: For a more sophisticated spread, why not pair them with prime rib or garlicky lamb chops? These flavors complement the nuttiness beautifully.
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Holiday Alternative: Looking for lighter alternatives during the holidays? The vibrancy of green beans almondine can easily brighten your festive table alongside traditional fare.
For more delicious side dish ideas, check out our guide on perfectly roasted vegetables!
Time Breakdown for Green Beans Almondine
Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your delicious green beans almondine takes just 10 minutes. This includes trimming the green beans, chopping shallots and garlic, and measuring out your ingredients. Quick, right?
Cooking time
Once you're prepped, the cooking itself is a breeze at around 15 minutes. You'll boil, sauté, and toss your beans with buttery almonds and bright lemon, perfect for keeping dinner moving seamlessly.
Total time
In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish. This means you can have a fancy side dish on the table in no time, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and celebratory meals. Need tips on what to pair with your green beans almondine? Check out our serving ideas for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Green Beans Almondine
When enjoying green beans almondine, it's helpful to know what you're serving your guests or family. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content:
Calories
Each serving of this delightful dish contains approximately 236 calories, making it a satisfying yet light accompaniment to any meal.
Protein
Green beans provide a modest amount of protein, contributing about 2 grams per serving. Pair them with a protein-rich main dish for a balanced plate.
Sodium
With a sprinkle of salt added during cooking, this recipe registers around 125 mg of sodium per serving, which is relatively low for a flavorful side, making it a healthy choice!
For more insights on maintaining a balanced diet, check out the USDA's Dietary Guidelines. Enjoy your culinary adventure with green beans almondine!
FAQs about Green Beans Almondine
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen green beans can be a lifesaver when you're short on time. Just be sure to blanch them slightly longer, around 4 minutes, to ensure they’re tender yet crisp. They won’t have the same fresh taste as haricots verts, but they’ll still hold up beautifully when sautéed with that rich buttery flavor and toasted almonds.
How do I make Green Beans Almondine ahead of time?
If you're prepping ahead, cook and blanch the green beans as directed, but refrain from adding the almonds and aromatics until just before serving. Store the cooled beans in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, quickly sauté them with butter, shallots, and almonds to regain that fresh taste and texture.
What are some good main dishes to serve with Green Beans Almondine?
Green beans almondine pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside baked chicken, turkey bacon, or even garlicky lamb chops for a delightful balance. For a more upscale vibe, they complement prime rib or mushroom risotto beautifully. Not only do they add a pop of color, but their lightness enhances any meal, making them perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Conclusion on Green Beans Almondine
In summary, green beans almondine elevates your dining experience with minimal effort. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this delightful dish combines simplicity with elegance. Try it today, and discover how a few ingredients can create a standout side that everyone will love!
If you're looking for more delicious side dishes, check out our guide to easy vegetable recipes.
Green Beans Almondine
Equipment
- large pot
- Skillet
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb. haricots verts (French green beans) trimmed
- 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- ½ cup raw sliced almonds
- 1 shallot finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, prep an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water.
- Cook green beans until crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer beans to ice bath. Drain.
- In large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter until lightly bubbling. Add almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add shallots and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add green beans and toss until combined and beans are tender. Stir in lemon zest and juice, tossing to coat; season with salt and pepper.
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