Name: Green Beans Almondine Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 lb (16 oz) French green beans (haricot verts, trimmed); 2 medium shallots (finely diced); 2 medium garlic cloves (finely minced); Zest of one small lemon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ heaping cup raw sliced almonds; 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; Kosher salt (to taste); Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 3 reviews

If you are looking to bring a beautiful, bright, and flavorful side dish to your next meal, look no further than this Green Beans Almondine Recipe. With tender-crisp green beans nestled in a rich and buttery toasted almond sauce, accented by the fresh zing of lemon and the subtle sweetness of caramelized shallots and garlic, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients prepared with care. It’s a classic French-inspired favorite that feels both elegant and comforting, making it perfect for everyday dinners or special occasions alike. Once you try this Green Beans Almondine Recipe, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white plate holds many fresh green beans spread across it, some spilling over the edges onto a white marbled surface. On the plate towards the top right are two small red shallots. To the right of the plate, a small white bowl contains finely chopped shallots. Near the center of the plate, next to the shallots, is a gray speckled bowl filled with sliced almonds, some almond slices scattered around it. Below the plate, two cloves of garlic rest on the white marbled texture. To the left side of the image, a small white dish holds two cubes of butter. The overall scene shows natural textures and fresh ingredients layered simply on the white plate and white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Green Beans Almondine Recipe plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the crisp green beans to the aromatic shallots and toasty almonds, each component contributes to the dish’s delightful character and vibrant appearance.

French green beans (1 lb): Choose fresh haricot verts for the best tender-crisp texture and bright green color.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds creamy richness and is the ideal fat for toasting almonds and sautéing aromatics.
Raw sliced almonds (¼ heaping cup): Toasted to golden perfection for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Shallots (2 medium, finely diced): Bring a gentle sweetness and depth that elevates the dish.
Garlic cloves (2 medium, finely minced): Infuse the butter and almonds with a warm, fragrant punch.
Lemon zest (from one small lemon): Adds a bright, citrusy aroma that lifts the flavors.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Provides essential acidity to balance richness.
Kosher salt: Proper seasoning is key to enhance all the natural flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy warmth to finish off the dish.

How to Make Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a vigorous boil—don’t forget to salt it generously as this is crucial for seasoning the beans and preserving their vibrant green color. Once boiling, add your trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re crisp-tender but still have a slight snap. This technique ensures the beans cook just right and keep their beautiful texture as you move to the skillet.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds and Sauté Aromatics

While the beans are blanching, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat until it starts to bubble gently. Toss in the sliced almonds and stir frequently as they toast and turn golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Next, reduce the heat to low and stir in the finely diced shallots and minced garlic. Cook these until they are fragrant and lightly caramelized, which usually takes an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This step infuses the butter with layers of flavor that make this Green Beans Almondine Recipe so irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Beans with Almond Mixture

Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the blanched green beans straight from the hot water into the skillet with your almond, shallot, and garlic mixture. Gently toss everything together over low heat until the beans are evenly coated and tender, but not mushy. Finish with lemon zest and a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors at their peak.

How to Serve Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Inside a black frying pan with a silver handle, there is one thick layer of bright green green beans mixed with small pieces of light brown toasted garlic and tiny bits of seasoning scattered throughout. The green beans have a shiny, slightly oily texture showing they were cooked. The pan rests on a folded white cloth with thin dark blue stripes, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make this dish even more special, consider sprinkling a few toasted almond slivers on top just before serving for that extra crunch and visual appeal. Freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of finely grated lemon zest can add a lovely pop of color and freshness that complements the almond butter sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Green Beans Almondine works wonderfully alongside roasted or grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It’s also a star on holiday tables paired with roasted turkey or ham. For vegetarian meals, it pairs nicely with hearty grain bowls or creamy risottos, providing a crisp, flavorful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

To elevate the presentation, plate the green beans in neat bundles tied with a chive if you want an elegant touch. Serving them on a warm platter with scattered almonds and lemon zest around the edges invites guests to dig in. You can also layer the beans on a bed of lemon-infused quinoa or couscous, making the dish even more colorful and texturally interesting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Green Beans Almondine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the green beans crisp while warming the almond butter sauce just enough to bring back its rich flavor.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can affect the green beans’ texture and the almonds’ crunch. However, if you must, freeze the blanched green beans separately before tossing them with the almond butter mixture. Thaw and sauté with fresh aromatics to revive the flavor as much as possible.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently to keep the almonds from burning and the green beans from overcooking. Adding a small pat of butter or a squeeze of lemon juice during reheating can help refresh the flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use regular green beans instead of French green beans?

Absolutely! While French green beans (haricot verts) are thinner and more tender, regular green beans work perfectly well in this recipe. Just trim them and adjust blanching time if needed to achieve that crisp-tender bite.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with a good-quality plant-based margarine or olive oil. Keep in mind that this will slightly change the flavor profile but still deliver a delicious Green Beans Almondine Recipe.

Why do you salt the blanching water so heavily?

The heavy salting seasons the green beans as they cook and helps maintain their vibrant green hue. It also prevents the beans from tasting bland, making a big difference in the final flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can blanch and store the green beans ahead of time, then finish the almonds and aromatics just before serving. This keeps the textures and flavors fresh and ensures your Green Beans Almondine Recipe tastes just like made from scratch.

What if I don’t have shallots? Can I use onions instead?

Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter taste, but if you don’t have them, finely diced yellow onions can work as a substitute. Just sauté them gently so they don’t overpower the delicate flavors of the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Green Beans Almondine Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to impress with its simplicity and elegance. The bright, crisp green beans paired with buttery toasted almonds and the fresh zip of lemon create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to shine on your table. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite way to enjoy green beans!

Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need