“Green Beans Almondine Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Nutritious Side Dish”

Green beans almondine is a timeless, elegant side dish that combines the freshness of green beans with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted almonds.

Originating from French cuisine, this dish brings a delicate yet satisfying balance to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or as a simple weeknight dinner, green beans almondine adds a touch of sophistication without requiring complex ingredients or preparation.

Ingredients Needed

For this dish, you don’t need a long shopping list or complex ingredients. What you need are fresh, high-quality green beans, a handful of almonds, and a few staple seasonings. Below is a list of the necessary ingredients with their corresponding calorie counts.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (Approx.)
Fresh green beans	1 lb (450g)	150
Slivered almonds	1/2 cup	200
Unsalted butter	3 tbsp	300
Fresh lemon juice	1 tbsp	4
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	8
Salt	To taste	0
Black pepper	To taste	6
Fresh parsley	1 tbsp (optional)	1

Total Calories (approx.): 669 calories for the entire recipe

This recipe serves about 4 people, so each serving would be around 167 calories.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making green beans almondine is simple, even for beginner cooks. Follow these easy-to-understand steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish on the table in no time.

1. Prepare the Green Beans

Start by rinsing the green beans under cold water. Trim the ends using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors. If the beans are particularly long, you can cut them into smaller pieces to make them easier to serve and eat. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Blanch the green beans by dropping them into the boiling water and cooking them for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Once done, immediately transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain their vibrant green color and prevents overcooking. Drain the beans and set them aside.

2. Toast the Almonds

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the slivered almonds and toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Watch closely, as they can burn quickly. The almonds should turn a golden brown and release a lovely toasted aroma. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Sauté Garlic and Butter

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden.

4. Combine the Green Beans

Add the drained green beans to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss gently to coat the beans in the butter and garlic mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and slightly caramelized on the edges. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Add the Almonds and Lemon Juice

Once the green beans are perfectly cooked, sprinkle the toasted almonds over the beans. Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and give the dish a light, zesty finish. Toss everything together to combine.

6. Serve

Transfer the green beans almondine to a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful crunch of the almonds and the vibrant flavors of the green beans.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

While green beans almondine is fantastic as is, there are many ways to customize the dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few tips:

• Add More Vegetables: You can mix in other vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers. These will add more flavor and texture, making the dish even heartier.
• Try Different Nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, you can substitute them with other nuts like pecans or walnuts. Just be sure to toast them to bring out their flavor.
• Go Dairy-Free: If you’re following a dairy-free or vegan diet, you can easily substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The dish will still be rich and satisfying.
• Herbs and Spices: If you want to add more complexity to the flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, thyme, or rosemary. These herbs will complement the green beans nicely.
• Make It Cheesy: For a more indulgent version, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. It adds a salty, umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the beans.

Nutritional Information

Green beans almondine is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish. Let’s break down the nutritional content per serving (about 1/4 of the recipe):

The combination of green beans and almonds provides a great mix of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. The high fiber content also makes it a filling dish that helps with digestion.

Serving Suggestions

Green beans almondine pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some great options for serving:

• Roast Chicken: The savory, golden skin of roasted chicken complements the buttery green beans beautifully. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
• Grilled Fish: Light, flaky fish like salmon or tilapia works perfectly with this dish. The freshness of the fish balances out the richness of the green beans.
• Steak: A juicy, grilled steak makes a satisfying main course alongside green beans almondine. The nutty flavors of the almonds will enhance the meat’s taste.
• Pasta: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, serve this dish with a hearty pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti. The green beans add a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of a pasta dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen beans tend to release more moisture.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The green beans will still taste great when reheated, although the almonds may lose some of their crunch.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the green beans and almonds ahead of time, but it’s best to sauté and assemble the dish just before serving. The texture of the beans may soften if they sit too long.

Conclusion

Green beans almondine is a dish that delivers both in flavor and presentation. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special and looks beautiful on any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The fresh green beans, toasty almonds, and buttery sauce create a delightful combination that’s both healthy and satisfying. So, the next time you’re looking for a side dish that adds a touch of elegance to your meal, give green beans almondine a try—you won’t regret it!