Green Beans Toasted Almonds Lemon (Printer-friendly)
Crisp green beans combined with toasted almonds and a splash of lemon for a fresh side.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
→ Nuts
02 - 1/3 cup sliced almonds
→ Aromatics & Seasoning
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
05 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
06 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Finishing
07 - Zest of 1 lemon
08 - 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
# Directions:
01 - Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, until bright green and just tender. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate.
03 - In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add the green beans, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
05 - Remove from heat. Add the lemon zest and juice. Toss gently. Sprinkle with toasted almonds just before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The contrast between crisp beans and buttery toasted almonds makes every bite interesting
- Lemon brightens everything without overpowering the fresh bean flavor
- It comes together in 20 minutes but looks like you put way more thought into it
02 -
- Ice water is not optional, it stops the cooking process instantly and keeps beans crisp tender
- Don't skip toasting the almonds yourself, the pre toasted ones from the store lack that fresh nutty flavor
03 -
- Dry the beans really well after the ice bath so the butter actually clings to them instead of creating a watery sauce
- Use room temperature butter so it melts evenly and coats every bean