Crispy Green Bean Almondine: A Delightful Nutty Side Dish
Elevate your dinner with this easy green bean almondine! Deliciously crispy and nutty, it's the perfect side for any meal. Check out the recipe!
Crispy Green Bean Almondine: A Delightful Nutty Side Dish
You ever find yourself staring at a pile of boring veggies that just don’t excite you? i get it. but let me tell you about green bean almondine —this dish will have you singing praises! imagine fresh, crisp green beans tossed in butter, and then sprinkled with toasted almonds.
It’s not just a side; it’s a flavor party on your plate.
This classic dish hails from french cuisine and carries a certain charm. it’s simple yet feels fancy. like, you could whip it up for a tuesday night dinner or make it the star of your holiday spread.
It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without breaking a sweat!
Now, don't fret! making green beans almondine is super easy. we're talking about a total time of just 20 minutes —prep and all.
Yep, only 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook. it serves about 4 people, making it awesome for a small family dinner or to impress your besties at a potluck.
One of the cool things about this dish is its health benefits. green beans are packed with nutrients, like vitamin c and fiber, which is always a win.
Plus, you get that nutty goodness from the almonds, so you're not just filling your tummy; you're giving it some love!
Honestly, i’d say it’s the perfect side for a cozy family meal or even a barbecue. pair it with grilled chicken, and your taste buds will thank you later.
What makes this dish special? it’s all about that delightful crunch from the toasted almonds and the flash of flavor from sautéed garlic.
I remember the first time i made this for my family. i was trying to impress my mom on her birthday, and boy, did it work! the look on her face when she took that first bite? priceless.
If you're like me and want a winning side dish that’s quick and impressive, green bean almondine should definitely be on your radar.
So, are you ready to dive into the ingredients? let’s get cooking!
Crispy Green Bean Almondine: A Delightful Nutty Side Dish Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Ingredients & Equipment for Crispy Green Bean Almondine
Main Ingredients
Okay, let’s dive into what you’re gonna need for this delicious green beans dish. Trust me, Green Bean Almondine is a game-changer!
- 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans , trimmed
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1/2 cup (75g) sliced almonds , toasted
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (optional but do it for the zing!)
When picking your green beans, look for ones that are bright and firm—kind of like the way mom always told us to pick the freshest produce at the market.
You want them crisp, not wilted.
Seasoning Notes
Now, let’s talk flavor! For this dish, we’re gonna rely on the basics.
- Salt and pepper are your best friends here, but don’t stop there! The lemon juice adds that zing we crave.
- If you ever run out of garlic, onion powder works in a pinch!
- Want to kick it up a notch? Toss in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Equipment Needed
You really don’t need much to whip up these Oven Roasted Green Beans . Here’s the lowdown:
- Large pot for blanching (trust me, it’s key!)
- Slotted spoon or tongs (those beans can be slippery!)
- Large skillet (this is where the magic happens)
- Small frying pan (for toasting the almonds, of course!)
If you don’t have some fancy tool, don’t sweat it! A regular pot can do the job, and that old frying pan buried in your cabinet will work just fine.
Before You Start Cooking
I remember the first time i attempted this dish. i boiled the beans for too long and turned them into mush.
Major bummer! but don’t worry; by following the blanching green beans step properly, you’ll avoid that fate. the ice bath is seriously like a spa day for veggies—helps keep them vibrant and crunchy!
In short, gathering these main ingredients and having your equipment ready will set you up for success in preparing this scrumptious side.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking! whether it’s for a dinner party or just because, this green beans with almonds recipe is a total crowd-pleaser!
Cooking Method for Crispy Green Bean Almondine
Alright, friends, let's dive into making this crispy green bean almondine that’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight.
Seriously, these bad boys are like a green veggie party on your plate!
Prep Steps: Setting the Stage
First up, let’s talk mise en place . you know, the fancy term that just means getting your ingredients ready. trim those 1 pound of fresh green beans and have your 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil ready to go.
Trust me, gathering everything beforehand will save you so much time.
Oh, and safety first! When you’re working with that boiling water for your green beans, just be careful not to burn yourself. It can be a little steamy out there!
Step-by-Step Process: Let’s Cook!
- Blanch Your Green Beans : Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in those green beans for about 3- 4 minutes . You want them vibrant green and tender-crisp.
- Ice Bath Time : Drain the beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking. This makes them stay crispy and colorful—trust me!
- Toast the Almonds : In a small frying pan, toast your 1/2 cup of sliced almonds over medium heat for 3- 4 minutes until they’re golden. Stir them around; we don’t want any burnt nuts!
- Get Sautéing : In a large skillet, melt your 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add in 2 cloves of minced garlic and let that cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds ).
- Mix It Up : Toss in those drained green beans, then season with salt and pepper. Sauté everything together for 3- 5 minutes until the beans are heated through but still vibrant.
- The Grand Finale : Stir in those toasted almonds and add a squeeze of lemon juice if you’re feeling fancy.
Pro Tips: Mastering Almondine
- Try roasting frozen green beans if you're short on time. Bake them in the oven at 425° F for about 20- 25 minutes , and then finish as directed.
- Avoid mushy beans by not overcooking them during the blanching step. You want that nice crunch!
- Make-ahead options ? Prep the beans and almonds a day ahead. Just sauté them right before serving. They'll still taste fresh!
Remember, cooking should be fun! so, whip up this green beans almondine , and pair it with some grilled chicken or buttery morning buns for a complete meal.
You’ll impress everyone at the dinner table, trust me!
In the end, this dish is about simplicity and deliciousness. Bring those green beans to life, and enjoy! Bon appétit!
Recipe Notes for Green Bean Almondine
Serving Suggestions: A Feast for the Eyes
When you're serving up green bean almondine , presentation can really take this dish to the next level. think about using a crisp white plate to let those vibrant green beans pop! you can arrange them in a nice little pile, and maybe sprinkle some extra toasted almonds on top.
Honestly, it’s all about that wow factor!
As for sides, grilled chicken or fish are perfect partners. they bring out the richness of the buttery beans. if you wanna level up your brunch game, pair it with morning buns or even some flaky biscuits.
And don't forget a chilled glass of white wine or maybe even sparkling lemon water to keep it refreshing.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
You might be wondering how to store leftovers after making this delicious side. for the best results, pop those beans in an airtight container in the fridge.
They'll stay good for about 3 to 4 days. if you’re looking to freeze, just make sure they've cooled completely first.
Spread them out on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. they can hang out in there for about 2 months!
When it’s time to reheat, toss them back in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Just a little butter or olive oil can do wonders here! Those roasted frozen green beans won’t taste like last week’s dinner, I promise!
Variations: Change It Up!
Got dietary restrictions? no problem! you can make a vegan version of green beans almondine by swapping out butter for olive oil or vegan butter.
Want a bit more earthiness? toss in some sautéed mushrooms! you can also play around with seasonal ingredients; think oven roasted green beans in the fall, seasoned with some garlic and sage.
Nutrition Basics: A Healthy Side Dish
Let’s break down the basics. green beans almondine is a pretty good choice for a side. each serving has about 180 calories, with loads of fiber.
They’re packed with vitamins a and c too! so while you’re enjoying flavorful food, you’re also getting a nice health boost to your meal.
Conclusion: look into In!
Creating green bean almondine is not just about cooking; it's about making memories around the dinner table. easy, delicious, and adaptable for any meal, this side is sure to impress.
So gather up your fresh greens and toasted almonds, and let’s get cooking! you got this, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be a fan for life!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is green bean almondine?
Green bean almondine is a classic French dish that features vibrant green beans sautéed in butter, enhanced with toasted almonds and often a hint of garlic. It's a simple yet elegant side dish that elevates any meal, perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
How do you properly blanch green beans for almondine?
To blanch green beans, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until they're bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process, preserving their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Can I make substitutions in the green bean almondine recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have green beans, feel free to use snap peas or asparagus as substitutes. As for the almonds, you can swap them out for walnuts or pecans, and toss in some sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and earthiness.
How long can I store leftover green bean almondine?
Leftover green bean almondine can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the beans might lose their crispness over time. Reheat gently in a skillet to help retain some texture, or enjoy them cold in a salad!
What are some variations I can try with green bean almondine?
You can experiment with the flavors in green bean almondine by adding a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist, or tossing in herbs like thyme or parsley while sautéing. For added zest, a squeeze of lemon juice complements the dish beautifully!
Is green bean almondine a healthy side dish?
Yes! Green bean almondine offers a nutritious balance of vitamins and healthy fats. With fresh green beans providing fiber and vitamins, and almonds contributing healthy fats and protein, it's a tasty option that supports a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.