Green Bean Almondine

Elevate your side dish game with our exquisite Green Bean Almondine—a timeless classic that combines the vibrant freshness of green beans with the nutty richness of toasted almonds. This elegant and flavorful dish is a testament to simplicity and sophistication, making it a perfect addition to any meal, from weeknight dinners to special occasions. With a touch of garlic and a drizzle of lemon juice, this Green Bean Almondine offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds delighted and your guests asking for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed

• 2 tablespoons butter or dairy-free margarine

• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds

• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blanch the Green Beans:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt. Add the green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they are bright green and crisp-tender.

• Immediately drain the green beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.

2. Toast the Almonds:

• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and cook, stirring constantly, until they turn golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.

3. Sauté the Garlic:

• Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the toasted almonds. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Stir to combine.

4. Add Green Beans:

• Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat them with the butter, toasted almonds, and garlic.

5. Season and Finish:

• Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the green beans and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together for about 1-2 minutes, or until the green beans are heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Transfer the Green Bean Almondine to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley leaves for added color and freshness.

7. Enjoy:

• Serve your Green Bean Almondine as a flavorful and elegant side dish alongside your favorite main course.

This Green Bean Almondine is a delightful and visually appealing side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. The combination of crisp-tender green beans, toasted almonds, and a hint of garlic and lemon juice creates a burst of flavors and textures that elevate your dining experience.