Green Beans Almondine Recipe

If you’re searching for a side dish that’s elegant yet incredibly simple to whip up, then you’re going to adore this Green Beans Almondine Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out every time — crisp-tender green beans with buttery toasted almonds and a bright lemony finish that just sings on your palate. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or a special dinner, this recipe is a go-to that feels fancy but comes together so quickly you’ll want to make it all the time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients really complement each other, giving you that perfect balance of crispy green beans, nutty almonds, and a subtle zing from lemon and garlic. Plus, I like to use fresh haricot verts when I can—they’re thinner and cook just right.

• Green Beans (preferably haricot verts, trimmed): Using fresh and crisp beans makes all the difference in texture.
• Sliced Almonds: Toasting these brings out their deep, nutty flavor and crunch.
• Extra-virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the shallots beautifully.
• Shallot (thinly sliced): Provides a mild, sweet onion flavor that blends perfectly.
• Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning at multiple steps to boost each layer of flavor.
• Garlic Clove (grated): Just a touch gives that warm aroma without overpowering.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: The final squeeze brightens everything up and balances richness.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth.

Variations

I love how flexible this Green Beans Almondine Recipe is. Over time I’ve played with a few tweaks depending on what’s in season or what my family prefers, and honestly, it still shines every way.

• Adding Fresh Herbs: Sometimes I toss in fresh thyme or parsley at the end for an herbaceous twist that livens things up beautifully.
• Using Different Nuts: If I don’t have almonds on hand, chopped pecans or walnuts add a different but equally tasty nutty crunch.
• Vegan Variation: Replace olive oil with vegan butter for a more buttery flavor without compromising the plant-based goodness.
• Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes turns this into a zesty side that’s perfect when you’re craving a bit of heat.

How to Make Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans to Perfection

First things first — bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and get a big bowl of ice water ready on the side. I’ve discovered that blanching the green beans for just 2 minutes keeps them crisp-tender, not mushy. Don’t skip the ice water bath immediately after — it stops the cooking process and helps the beans keep their vibrant green color. After draining, lay the beans on a towel to dry well; this prevents splattering during sautéing.

Step 2: Toast Almonds for That Irresistible Crunch

While the beans are cooling, heat a dry cast-iron skillet over medium heat and toast the sliced almonds until they turn golden and smell nutty — about 2 to 3 minutes. I like to keep a close eye here and stir frequently to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove the almonds from the pan and set them aside. This step really elevates the dish by adding wonderful texture and flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Green Beans

Add the olive oil to the same skillet, lowering the heat slightly if needed so you don’t scorch the shallots. Toss in the sliced shallot with half a teaspoon of sea salt to help them sweat and soften, cooking for about 2 minutes. Then add the blanched green beans and sauté for another 2 to 4 minutes until they’re warmed through and tender but still have a nice snap to them. This step is where the beans soak up all the lovely flavors.

Step 4: Finish with Garlic, Lemon, and Almonds

Remove the skillet from heat, then toss in the grated garlic and fresh lemon juice. Stir everything nicely to combine — the lemon juice adds such a fresh lift here that I always look forward to. Season to taste with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finally, transfer to your serving dish, sprinkle the toasted almonds on top, and voila! You’ve got a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s both simple and sophisticated.

How to Serve Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with just the toasted almonds on top, but if I want to jazz things up a bit, a little fresh parsley or a few lemon zest curls add such a lovely touch. The bright green of parsley or the delicate curls catch the eye and hint at the fresh flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This Green Beans Almondine Recipe pairs so well with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty beef roast. On busy weeknights, I often serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa salad. It’s that adaptable! My family especially loves it during holiday meals as a lighter complement to heavier mains.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving these green beans in a shallow white dish lined with lemon slices underneath. It makes the presentation look fresh and inviting. I’ve even layered them over a bed of almond-studded wild rice for a beautiful and textured side platter that guests really admire.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually let it cool completely before sealing, which helps keep the green beans from getting soggy. When I’ve reheated it later, the almonds stay crisp and the beans keep their color.

Freezing

Freezing green beans almondine is possible but not ideal due to the almonds losing their crunch. If you need to freeze, I recommend leaving the almonds off and adding them fresh after reheating. Blanched green beans freeze well for up to 2 months, so you can prepare beans ahead and assemble later.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to warm the green beans without overcooking them. Adding a tiny drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon helps revive the flavors. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the almond crunch and texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Green Beans Almondine Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings so much joy every time I make it. Whether it’s a family dinner or holiday meal, this side adds that perfect nutty crunch and bright freshness that keeps everyone coming back for more. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do — it’s simple, stunning, and just downright delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a new kitchen favorite in your home too!

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