Print

Crispy Green Bean Almondine Recipe Easy Zesty Lemon Butter Side Dish

crispy green bean almondine - featured image

A quick and elegant side dish featuring crisp-tender green beans, toasted almonds, and a bright zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for blanching)
  • 1/3 cup (35g) sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided and softened
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound fresh green beans under cold water and trim the ends.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Add green beans and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and just tender but still crisp.
  3. Immediately transfer the beans to a large bowl filled with ice water to stop cooking. Leave for 3 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/3 cup sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove almonds and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Once melted and hot, add the drained green beans and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly crisp and caramelized.
  6. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and 1 small minced garlic clove. Toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Add the toasted almonds back into the skillet along with the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Toss gently for 1 minute until butter melts and almonds are evenly distributed.
  8. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Do not overcook the green beans to maintain crispness. Toast almonds carefully over medium heat to avoid burning. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil. Frozen green beans can be used but adjust blanching time. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep beans crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: green bean almondine, lemon butter green beans, crispy green beans, almond side dish, easy vegetable side, quick green beans, zesty lemon butter