Green Beans Almondine is a classic French side dish that elevates simple green beans into a sophisticated and flavorful dish. The green beans are sautéed with slivered almonds, garlic, and a touch of avocado oil, creating a perfect combination of crunchy, savory, and slightly nutty flavors. This dish is not only quick and easy to make but also adds a vibrant touch to any meal, whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a special gathering. The optional addition of lemon juice and Parmesan cheese can further enhance the dish, making it a versatile choice that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. With its bright, fresh flavors and elegant presentation, Green Beans Almondine is sure to become a favorite on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Green Beans Almondine is a simple yet elegant side dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. The green beans retain their natural crispness, while the almonds provide a delightful crunch, and the garlic infuses the dish with a savory depth of flavor. The use of avocado oil adds a subtle richness, making this dish feel indulgent without being heavy. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of main dishes, from grilled meats to roasted poultry, and even fish. Plus, it’s a quick recipe that can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. With the option to garnish with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese, you can easily customize the flavor to suit your preferences. It’s a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare but is actually incredibly simple to make.

Ingredients

Green beans, ends trimmed
Avocado oil
Slivered almonds
Garlic cloves, minced
Salt, to taste

Optional garnish:

Lemon juice
Parmesan cheese

Variations

Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, sauté some crumbled bacon along with the garlic and almonds.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing for a subtle heat.
Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor and aroma.
Crispy Shallots: Instead of garlic, use crispy shallots for a sweeter and milder flavor.
Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free variation, or use nutritional yeast as a substitute for a cheesy flavor.
Lemon Zest: Add a little lemon zest along with lemon juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Trim the ends off the green beans and rinse them under cold water. Set them aside to drain.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the slivered almonds and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to turn golden and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the almonds and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Cook the Green Beans

Add the green beans to the skillet, stirring them to coat evenly with the oil, garlic, and almonds. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp. If needed, you can cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to help cook the beans through.

Step 5: Season

Sprinkle with salt to taste and give the beans a final stir to ensure even seasoning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

If desired, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the beans and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Green Beans: To ensure the green beans remain crisp and bright in color, be careful not to overcook them. They should be tender but still have a slight snap when you bite into them.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic will give the dish a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor than garlic powder.
Toast the Almonds Carefully: Keep a close eye on the almonds while toasting to prevent them from burning. They can go from golden to burnt very quickly.
Add Water for Steaming: If the green beans are not cooking through quickly enough, add a tablespoon of water to the pan and cover it to steam the beans for a couple of minutes.
Adjust the Oil: Avocado oil is a great choice for sautéing due to its high smoke point, but you can substitute with olive oil if you prefer.

How to Serve

Green Beans Almondine makes an excellent side dish for any meal, from holiday feasts to casual weeknight dinners. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared fish. You can also serve it alongside a hearty pasta dish or as a fresh contrast to creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re preparing a special meal, try serving the green beans in a decorative bowl to add a touch of elegance to the table. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or lemon zest on top just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Green Beans Almondine, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat to retain their texture.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the green beans before they are sautéed. Blanch the beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once they are cooled, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply sauté them as instructed.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the green beans in a skillet over medium heat. If they appear dry, add a small splash of water or broth to help revive them. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though the texture may not be as crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but they may not retain the same crispness as fresh beans. Be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before sautéing.

2. Can I make Green Beans Almondine in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the green beans and almonds ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just sauté and assemble right before serving.

3. Can I use a different oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil or butter instead of avocado oil, depending on your preference.

4. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Try adding lemon zest or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for additional flavor.

5. Can I add other nuts to this dish?

Yes, you can substitute or add other nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Green Beans Almondine is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

7. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

To avoid burning the garlic, cook it for a shorter time (about 30 seconds) after the almonds have toasted, and make sure to stir frequently.

8. Can I add cheese to the dish?

Yes! Parmesan cheese is a wonderful addition that can be sprinkled on top before serving for extra flavor.

9. How do I know when the green beans are done?

The green beans should be tender but still have a slight snap when you bite into them. You can test one to make sure it’s cooked to your liking.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Conclusion

Green Beans Almondine is a quick, delicious, and versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. With its combination of fresh green beans, slivered almonds, and savory garlic, this dish is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or for a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. With easy variations and optional garnishes like lemon juice and Parmesan cheese, this recipe can be customized to suit your preferences and enhance any meal.