Save A vibrant, crisp side dish featuring tender green beans, fragrant garlic, and toasted almonds for a perfect blend of flavor and crunch.
I first served this dish to my family on a busy weeknight and everyone loved how flavorful yet light it was.
Ingredients
- Fresh green beans: 1 lb (450 g), trimmed
- Garlic: 2 cloves, thinly sliced
- Sliced almonds: 1/4 cup (25 g)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tsp (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 2–3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain well and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove almonds from the pan and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sliced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4:
- Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Sauté, stirring frequently, for 3–4 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp-tender.
- Step 5:
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional lemon juice. Toss to combine.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the green beans and serve immediately.
Save This dish quickly became a favorite during family dinners, often requested alongside main courses or as a light vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a side dish to grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a delightful spicy kick.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to retain the crispness of the green beans.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 120 calories, 8 g total fat, 10 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save 
Enjoy this delightful side with a perfect balance of texture and flavor that will brighten any meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the green beans crisp but tender?
Blanch the green beans briefly in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes, then immediately plunge them into ice water to stop cooking and preserve crispness.
- → Can I use other nuts besides almonds?
Yes, hazelnuts or walnuts can be substituted for almonds to add a different crunchy texture and flavor profile.
- → What is the best way to toast almonds for this dish?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
- → Is lemon juice necessary in this dish?
Lemon juice is optional but recommended to brighten the flavors and add a subtle fresh acidity.
- → Can this side dish be made ahead?
It is best served immediately to retain the crisp texture, though green beans can be blanched ahead and sautéed just before serving.