Roasted Green Beans Almondine
Highlighted under: Wholesome Recipes
I absolutely love preparing Roasted Green Beans Almondine! This dish perfectly balances tender green beans with crunchy, toasted almonds, giving it a delightful texture. The vibrant flavor of lemon zest elevates the simple ingredients, making it a stunning side for any meal. It takes just a few minutes to prepare and is a fantastic way to showcase fresh green beans. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress. I can't wait for you to try it!
When I first tried Roasted Green Beans Almondine, I was captivated by how a few simple ingredients could shine so brightly together. The key is to roast the green beans until they're just tender and slightly caramelized, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge. To achieve the perfect nutty flavor, toast the almonds on low heat to ensure they don’t burn. This dish is not just a side; it can easily steal the spotlight!
I've found that adding a sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest right before serving enhances the dish beautifully. It brings a bright freshness that complements the earthy flavors perfectly. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a festive spread, and watch it disappear in seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Beautifully toasted almonds add crunch to every bite
- Bright and zesty flavors elevate your regular green bean dish
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Perfecting Your Roasting Technique
Roasting green beans at a high temperature is crucial for achieving that charred flavor and crunchy texture. At 425°F (220°C), the beans should roast evenly without steaming. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding can trap steam, preventing the beans from getting that desirable crispness. After about 10 minutes, give them a shake for even cooking and monitor closely to prevent burning at the edges.
For an added depth of flavor, consider tossing the green beans with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of garlic powder before roasting. These additions can take your dish to another level without complicating the recipe. Just be cautious with liquid ingredients to ensure the beans crisp up nicely.
The Role of Almonds and Lemon Zest
Almonds are not just a decorative touch in this dish; they play a significant role in both texture and flavor balance. The nuttiness of the toasted almonds complements the earthiness of the green beans beautifully, while their crunch contrasts with the tender beans. For a different twist, you might substitute walnuts or pecans, keeping in mind that their flavors will vary, offering a unique take on the dish.
Lemon zest serves as a flavor enhancer, brightening the green beans and adding freshness that ties the dish together. Opt for a fine microplane to achieve delicate zest that incorporates better into the dish without overwhelming the other flavors. If you're looking for a citrus alternative, orange zest can create a sweet and aromatic variation—perfect for fall soirées.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for your delicious Roasted Green Beans Almondine:
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
With just a few ingredients, you're ready to create a flavorful side dish!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make the perfect Roasted Green Beans Almondine:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect roast.
Prepare the Green Beans
Toss the trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet until well coated.
Roast the Green Beans
Spread the beans in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
Toast the Almonds
While the beans are roasting, place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over low heat and toast until golden, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Combine and Serve
Once the green beans are ready, remove them from the oven and toss with the toasted almonds and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Roasted Green Beans Almondine!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider drizzling balsamic glaze over the finished dish or adding garlic to the roasting green beans.
Making It Ahead
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare green beans in advance. After trimming and tossing them with oil, store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast them according to the recipe instructions. Remember to season them again after refrigerating, as the salt can draw moisture and alter their taste while sitting.
For leftovers, store roasted green beans in the fridge for up to three days in a covered container. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps retain their texture for a delicious next-day side.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Roasted Green Beans Almondine make a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with various proteins. They complement grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even vegan options like quinoa-stuffed bell peppers. The brightness of the lemon zest cuts through rich sauces or fatty meats, making it a well-balanced plate.
For a festive touch, consider serving these beans as part of a larger vegetable medley. Mixing them with roasted carrots or brussels sprouts not only adds color but also offers contrasting flavors. A sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving can elevate the dish even further.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but fresh green beans will yield a better texture and flavor.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the green beans and almonds in advance and combine them just before serving.
→ What other nuts can I use?
Pine nuts or walnuts can also be delicious alternatives to almonds in this recipe.
Roasted Green Beans Almondine
I absolutely love preparing Roasted Green Beans Almondine! This dish perfectly balances tender green beans with crunchy, toasted almonds, giving it a delightful texture. The vibrant flavor of lemon zest elevates the simple ingredients, making it a stunning side for any meal. It takes just a few minutes to prepare and is a fantastic way to showcase fresh green beans. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress. I can't wait for you to try it!
Created by: Quincy Harper
Recipe Type: Wholesome Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect roast.
Toss the trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet until well coated.
Spread the beans in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
While the beans are roasting, place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over low heat and toast until golden, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Once the green beans are ready, remove them from the oven and toss with the toasted almonds and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider drizzling balsamic glaze over the finished dish or adding garlic to the roasting green beans.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 5g