Hello, dear readers! Today, we’re spotlighting a dish that’s as elegant as it is easy to prepare: Green Bean Almondine. This classic side dish, with its tender green beans and crunchy almond slices, dressed in a simple yet flavorful buttery sauce, is the perfect accompaniment to almost any main course. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a way to spruce up weeknight dinners for your family of four, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Lemon zest or parsley for garnish
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare the Green Beans: Begin by washing the green beans and trimming off the ends. If you like your green beans in bite-sized pieces, you can cut them in half. The key is to ensure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how crunchy you like them. Once they’re bright green and tender, drain them and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial for preserving their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Cooking Instructions:
- Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast them, stirring frequently, until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Be careful to keep an eye on them, as they can go from toasted to burnt quite quickly. Once done, transfer them to a plate.
- Sauté the Green Beans: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing them in the butter and garlic to coat evenly. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until they’re heated through.
- Combine and Season: Add the toasted almonds back into the skillet with the green beans. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good toss to ensure the beans and almonds are well coated with all the flavors.
Serving:
Transfer the Green Bean Almondine to a serving platter. If desired, garnish with a bit of lemon zest or chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. This dish serves beautifully alongside a variety of mains, from roasted chicken to grilled fish, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Conclusion:
Green Bean Almondine is more than just a side dish; it’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Its combination of textures and flavors—crunchy almonds, tender green beans, and a hint of lemon—makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both nutritious and delicious. So next time you’re looking to elevate your dinner table, remember this classic recipe. It’s sure to add a touch of elegance to your meal and leave your family or guests asking for seconds. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!
