Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor, I’ve got just the thing for you: my Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe. Whenever I serve this, everyone asks for seconds because it’s that good — crunchy toasted almonds, bright lemon zest, and tender green beans all come together in a way that’s both comforting and fresh. Trust me, once you try this, green beans will never be boring again.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a starring role in this Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe. I like to pick fresh, bright green beans and make sure to toast the almonds just right for that irresistible crunch.

• Green beans (preferably haricot verts, trimmed): I find haricot verts more tender and flavorful, but any fresh green beans will work.
• Sliced almonds: Toasting these brings out their nuttiness and adds the perfect crisp contrast.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the shallots and green beans beautifully.
• Shallot (thinly sliced): Shallots add a delicate sweetness and depth you just don’t get with regular onions.
• Sea salt: I always season at multiple stages for the best flavor balance.
• Garlic clove (grated): Grating really amps up the garlic’s aroma and prevents big chunks.
• Fresh lemon juice: This is the magic touch that brightens everything up and keeps the dish lively.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth and spice.

Variations

I love how versatile this Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe is — it’s easy to tweak depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

• Variation: Sometimes I swap sliced almonds for slivered or even chopped pecans for a richer nutty flavor — my family loves this twist.
• Variation: For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the shallots — it adds a nice unexpected kick.
• Variation: If you want to make it vegan, just stick to olive oil and skip any butter; the flavor is still fantastic.
• Variation: During the holidays, I like to sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs mixed with fresh herbs over the top for extra texture and festivity.

How to Make Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe

Step 1: Blanch the green beans for vibrant color and perfect texture

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, and while that’s heating up, set out a large bowl filled with ice water. This ice bath is key—it stops the beans from cooking further and locks in that beautiful green color. Drop your trimmed green beans into the boiling water and let them cook for just 2 minutes—they should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Then quickly transfer them into the ice bath. After a minute or two, drain the beans and pat them dry on a clean towel. I always dry them well here to avoid oil splatters later.

Step 2: Toast the almonds until golden and fragrant

Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat—no oil needed here. Add the sliced almonds and keep them moving in the pan so they toast evenly and don’t burn. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes, and you’ll know they’re ready when they turn a gorgeous golden brown and fill the kitchen with that irresistible nutty aroma. Remove the almonds and set them aside because we’ll add them back at the end for crunch.

Step 3: Sauté shallots and green beans for flavor

To the same skillet, add the extra-virgin olive oil and turn the heat down a bit if needed—you want to gently sweat those shallots without burning them. Add your thinly sliced shallot along with half a teaspoon of sea salt to help draw out moisture and flavor. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the shallots are soft and translucent. Then toss in the blanched green beans and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 4 minutes until the beans are warmed through and perfectly tender.

Step 4: Finish with garlic, lemon, and almonds

Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly stir in the grated garlic and fresh lemon juice — this vibrant combo wakes up the whole dish. Give everything a good toss to coat the green beans evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and some freshly ground black pepper. Transfer to your favorite serving dish, sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top, and you’re ready to impress!

How to Serve Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep the garnish simple: just those toasted almonds on top for crunch. If I’m feeling fancy, a few lemon zest strands or a sprinkle of fresh parsley add a lovely pop of color and freshness. It’s amazing how a small garnish can make the dish feel truly special.

Side Dishes

This Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe pairs beautifully with anything from roasted chicken or grilled salmon to a hearty steak. It works well alongside mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or even a creamy polenta—consider it your green vegetable go-to for any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or dinner parties, I like to serve the green beans neatly twirled into little nests on the plate, topped with almonds and a light drizzle of olive oil. You could also plate them on a large platter garnished with edible flowers or fresh herbs for a festive touch that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, I recommend storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days. Before storing, leave the toasted almonds separate if you can—you want to keep them crunchy when you reheat.

Freezing

I typically don’t freeze this dish because the texture of green beans and toasted almonds changes after thawing—it can get a bit soggy. But if you must, freeze the green beans alone and add freshly toasted almonds when serving.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low to medium heat with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the toasted almonds after reheating so they stay crunchy. Avoid microwaving, which can make the beans limp.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Green Beans Almondine with Toasted Almonds Recipe turns out every single time—it’s a brilliant way to elevate simple green beans to something truly special. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could produce such a flavorful and elegant side. It’s become a staple in my kitchen because it’s easy, fast, and gets raves from everyone at the table. Seriously, give this one a try—you’ll be adding it to your rotation in no time.

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