Save A vibrant, crisp side dish featuring tender green beans, fragrant garlic, and toasted almonds for a perfect blend of flavor and crunch.
I have enjoyed serving this fresh green bean side at family dinners where it always disappears quickly.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Nuts: 1/4 cup (25 g) sliced almonds
- Oils & Fats: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp sea salt or to taste, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2 3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain well and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove almonds from the pan and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sliced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4:
- Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Sauté, stirring frequently, for 3 4 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp-tender.
- Step 5:
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional lemon juice. Toss to combine.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the green beans and serve immediately.
Save This dish brings back memories of relaxed weekend family dinners filled with laughter and fresh flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Variations
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substitute hazelnuts or walnuts for the almonds if desired.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently to maintain crunchiness.
Save This simple recipe adds a delightful crunch to your meals with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep green beans crisp when cooking?
Blanch green beans briefly in boiling salted water and immediately transfer them to ice water to stop cooking. This preserves their bright color and crisp texture.
- → What’s the best way to toast almonds?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant—usually about 2 minutes.
- → Can I substitute other nuts for almonds?
Yes, hazelnuts or walnuts work well to add a similar crunchy and nutty element to the dish.
- → How long should garlic be sautéed to avoid bitterness?
Sauté sliced garlic for about 1 minute over medium heat, just until fragrant and lightly golden, avoiding browning to prevent bitterness.
- → Is lemon juice necessary in this dish?
Lemon juice is optional but adds a bright, fresh note that enhances the overall flavor balance.