Classic Green Bean Almondine

Green Bean Almondine is a timeless French-inspired side dish that effortlessly elevates any meal. Made with crisp-tender green beans, toasted almonds, and a hint of lemon, this simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings. The combination of textures and flavors—crunchy nuts, tender beans, and buttery richness—creates a dish that’s light, flavorful, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic Green Bean Almondine stands out for its simplicity, elegance, and versatility. It requires only a few ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, and comes together in just minutes. The toasted almonds bring a nutty crunch, while the lemon juice adds brightness that enhances the natural flavor of the green beans. Whether you serve it with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian spread, this side dish complements a wide variety of main courses.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh green beans, trimmed

• Sliced almonds

• Unsalted butter

• Fresh garlic, minced

• Fresh lemon juice

• Salt

• Black pepper

Directions

1. Begin by blanching the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.

2. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced almonds and toast them for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.

4. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.

5. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat with the butter, garlic, and almonds. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until heated through.

6. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add shallots: Sauté thinly sliced shallots with the garlic for extra flavor.

• Use haricots verts: French green beans are thinner and more delicate than regular green beans, adding a gourmet touch.

• Include lemon zest: A bit of lemon zest enhances the citrusy brightness.

• Make it dairy-free: Use olive oil instead of butter for a vegan version.

• Try with other nuts: Slivered almonds are classic, but you can substitute with chopped hazelnuts or pecans for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover green beans almondine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter or oil until heated through. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the beans soggy and almonds soft.

FAQs

How do I keep the green beans bright green?

Blanching them in boiling water followed by an ice bath helps retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but fresh green beans provide a better texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before sautéing.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly. You can also make it vegan by replacing butter with olive oil.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can blanch the green beans and toast the almonds ahead of time, but it’s best to sauté everything just before serving to maintain freshness.

What main dishes pair well with green bean almondine?

This dish pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked fish, or holiday entrees like turkey and ham.

What’s the difference between green beans almondine and amandine?

There is no difference; “amandine” is the French spelling and “almondine” is the Americanized version.

How do I toast almonds without burning them?

Toast them over medium heat and stir constantly. They brown quickly, so keep an eye on them.

Can I use whole almonds?

It’s best to use sliced or slivered almonds for even toasting and better texture in the dish.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add thinly sliced carrots or mushrooms for added flavor and variety.

Is lemon juice necessary?

Lemon juice balances the richness of the butter and nuts, but you can omit it or replace it with a splash of white wine vinegar if preferred.

Conclusion

Classic Green Bean Almondine is a refined and flavorful side dish that brings both elegance and simplicity to your table. With its quick preparation, minimal ingredients, and adaptable nature, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a casual meal, this dish adds a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor to your menu.