Green Beans Toasted Almonds (Print Version)
Crisp green beans enhanced by toasted almonds and lively lemon zest for a flavorful side.
# Recipe Ingredients:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
02 - 1 clove garlic, minced
03 - Zest of 1 lemon
04 - 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
→ Nuts
05 - ½ cup sliced almonds
→ Pantry
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil
07 - ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
08 - ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, until just tender and bright green. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate.
03 - In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
04 - Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat and warm through, about 2 minutes.
05 - Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted almonds. Serve immediately.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It transforms ordinary green beans into something restaurant worthy in just 20 minutes
- The combination of crunch from toasted almonds and bright lemon makes everyone reach for seconds
02 -
- Never skip the ice bath step, it is what keeps the beans crisp tender instead of mushy
- Work quickly once the almonds are toasting, they go from perfect to burned in seconds
03 -
- Zest your lemon before juicing it, the zest is easier to remove from a whole fruit
- Keep your toasted almonds on a separate plate so they stay crunchy until the very end