Save A vibrant, crisp side dish featuring tender green beans, fragrant garlic, and toasted almonds for a perfect blend of flavor and crunch.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite for its fresh flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- Green beans: 1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Sliced almonds: 1/4 cup (25 g)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp or to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Lemon juice: 1 tsp (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch Green Beans:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2 to 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.
- Toast Almonds:
- 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.
- Sauté Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sliced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Green Beans:
- Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Sauté stirring frequently for 3 to 4 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp-tender.
- Season:
- Season with salt black pepper and optional lemon juice. Toss to combine.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the green beans and serve immediately.
Save Enjoyed as a favorite side dish during our holiday dinners, this recipe brings everyone to the table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this green bean side with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal for a balanced plate.
Variations
Try substituting hazelnuts or walnuts for almonds, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
Save 
This simple yet flavorful side dish adds color and crunch to any meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you keep green beans crisp-tender?
Blanch the green beans in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, then immerse them in ice water to stop cooking and preserve the crispness.
- → What is the best way to toast almonds for this dish?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- → Can other nuts be used instead of almonds?
Yes, hazelnuts or walnuts can be substituted for almonds to add a different nutty flavor and texture.
- → What oils work well for sautéing garlic and green beans?
Olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits, but other neutral oils with a medium smoke point can also be used.
- → How does lemon juice affect the dish?
A splash of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the flavors, enhancing the freshness of the green beans and garlic.
- → Are there any tips for avoiding burnt garlic?
Sauté garlic over medium heat just until fragrant—about 1 minute—and avoid browning to maintain its delicate flavor without bitterness.