Q : Should I always blanch the green beans first?

A : Blanching the green beans helps to lock in their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. It's a recommended step, but you can skip it if you're in a hurry; just be aware the beans may not retain their bright green color as well.

Q : What other seasonings can I use with green beans?

A : In addition to salt and pepper, try adding red pepper flakes for some heat, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. A dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also elevate the flavor.

Q : Can I use frozen green beans?

A : Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones aren't available. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in your dish.

Q : How do I keep the green beans from becoming mushy?

A : To prevent mushy green beans, avoid overcooking them. Blanch for just 1-2 minutes and then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Q : Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A : Absolutely! Prepare up to the end of step 2, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, finish the dish by sautéing with butter and garlic.

French Green Beans Almondine (Easy Green Beans with Almonds)

Name: French Green Beans Almondine (Easy Green Beans with Almonds)
Prep time: PT-481658H40M39S
Cook time: PT-481658H40M39S
Total time: PT-481658H40M39S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 450g (1lb) Fine Green Beans (Haricots Verts), trimmed; 2 - 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter; ⅓ cup Raw Almonds, roughly chopped; 1 Shallots, finely diced; 2 Cloves of Garlic, minced; 1 Lemon, zest and 2 tsp lemon juice; Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste

Description

Enjoy this healthy, vegetarian French Green Beans Almondine recipe that's perfect for an easy side dish all year round. Ideal for weeknight dinners and Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner alike.

Ingredients

450g (1lb) Fine Green Beans (Haricots Verts), trimmed

2 - 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter

1/3 cup Raw Almonds, roughly chopped

1 Shallots, finely diced

2 Cloves of Garlic, minced

1 Lemon, zest and 2 tsp lemon juice

Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep the Green Beans - Wash and dry the fresh green beans. Use a sharp knife to trim the tops (not bottoms) off.

2. Blanch the Green Beans - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season the water generously with salt. (This helps season the green beans and retain their bright green color.) Fill a large bowl with ice and water to create an ice bath. Blanch the green beans for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are crisp-tender, slightly undercook the beans as they will continue to cook later. Use a slotted spoon and immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the beans and pat them dry with some paper towels.

3. Prep the Almonds - In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter until lightly bubbling. Add the chopped almonds and sauté, stirring frequently, for 2 to 4 minutes, until they start to turn golden brown. Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped shallots and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 to 3 minutes, until fragrant and lightly caramelized.

4. Sauté the Green Beans - Add the green beans to the skillet and toss until everything is well combined and the beans are tender and warmed through. Stir the lemon zest and lemon juice into the sautéed green beans, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve and Enjoy! Serve immediately.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Reheat: Use the microwave, or reheat in a non-stick skillet with a little water or chicken broth over medium heat.

Make Ahead: Perfect for parties or crowds with hassle-free prep. Prepare up to the end of step 2, cover, and refrigerate in an airtight container. When Ready - Finish the dish a la minute by reheating in a large skillet with butter and garlic until warmed through.

Prep Time: 5 - 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 - 20 minutes
Category: Side Dishes
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 127
Sugar: 3.4 g
Sodium: 103.1 mg
Fat: 9.9 g
Carbohydrates: 8.7 g
Protein: 3.3 g
Cholesterol: 15.3 mg