Save A vibrant, crisp side dish featuring tender green beans, fragrant garlic, and toasted almonds for a perfect blend of flavor and crunch.
This dish has become a staple at my family dinners because of its simplicity and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans: 1 lb (450 g), trimmed
- Garlic: 2 cloves, thinly sliced
- Sliced almonds: 1/4 cup (25 g)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tsp (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2–3 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.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sliced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4:
- Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Sauté, stirring frequently, for 3–4 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp-tender.
- Step 5:
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional lemon juice. Toss to combine.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the green beans and serve immediately.
Save This recipe brings our family together and is enjoyed by everyone at the table.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large bowl for ice water, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (almonds) Gluten-free and dairy-free Always verify ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 10 g Protein 3 g per serving
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This simple side elevates any meal with fresh flavors and satisfying texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve crisp-tender green beans?
Blanch the green beans in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes, then rapidly cool them in ice water. This method preserves their bright color and crisp texture before sautéing.
- → What’s the best way to toast almonds for this dish?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until golden and fragrant to enhance their nutty flavor.
- → Can I adjust the seasoning for more flavor?
Yes, add sea salt, freshly ground black pepper to taste, and optionally a splash of lemon juice to brighten the dish. For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works well.
- → Is olive oil preferred for sautéing here?
Olive oil provides a mild, fruity flavor and suits medium-heat sautéing, complementing the garlic and almonds without overpowering them.
- → Can I substitute almonds with other nuts?
You can replace almonds with hazelnuts or walnuts toasted similarly, adding a different but equally rich crunch and flavor to the dish.