Green Beans Toasted Almonds Lemon (Print Version)

Crisp green beans combined with toasted almonds and bright lemon for a fresh, flavorful side.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

→ Nuts

02 - 1/3 cup sliced almonds

→ Pantry & Condiments

03 - 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
04 - 1 clove garlic, minced

→ Seasonings

05 - 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)
06 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Finishing

07 - Zest of 1 lemon
08 - 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, until crisp-tender. Drain and immediately plunge into a bowl of ice water to stop 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 (or butter) and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
04 - Add the drained green beans to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, tossing frequently, for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
05 - Remove from heat. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and toasted almonds. Toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.

# Insider Tips:

01 -
  • The almonds add this incredible crunch that makes every bite interesting
  • Lemon wakes up the whole dish without overpowering the beans
02 -
  • The ice bath step is not optional unless you want mushy gray beans
  • Garlic burns faster than you think so stay right at the stove
03 -
  • Use a microplane for the lemon zest to avoid bitter white pith
  • Season at every step not just at the end for best flavor