Green Bean Almondine: A Classic Side Dish with a Modern Twist
When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, the turkey may take center stage, but it’s the side dishes that truly complete the meal. Among the array of comforting classics, one dish that consistently shines is Green Bean Almondine. This elegant yet simple recipe brings a touch of sophistication to your holiday table, offering a perfect balance of fresh green beans, rich butter, and crunchy toasted almonds.
A Dish with French Roots
Green Bean Almondine, or “Amandine” as it’s traditionally known, hails from French cuisine. The term “amandine” refers to a dish that’s garnished with almonds, and it’s often applied to various vegetables and fish. This preparation, though rooted in tradition, has become a beloved staple in many American households, particularly during the holidays.
What makes Green Bean Almondine so special is its simplicity. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both visually appealing and full of flavor. The bright green beans paired with the golden almonds and a hint of lemon zest make for a side that is as delicious as it is beautiful.
The Perfect Pairing for Thanksgiving
Green Bean Almondine is an ideal side dish for Thanksgiving because it offers a refreshing contrast to the richer, heartier dishes on the table. The green beans provide a crisp bite, while the almonds add a delightful crunch that complements the softness of mashed potatoes and the savoriness of stuffing.
But the real magic of this dish lies in its versatility. It pairs beautifully with turkey, but it’s just as comfortable alongside ham, roast beef, or even a vegetarian main. The addition of garlic and shallot gives the beans a depth of flavor, while the lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, making it feel light and fresh.
A Modern Twist
In this version of Green Bean Almondine, we’ve kept the traditional elements while adding a modern twist. By incorporating shallots and a touch of garlic, the dish gains an extra layer of richness and aroma. The lemon zest not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of citrusy freshness that elevates the entire dish.
Another tip for taking this dish to the next level is to blanch the green beans. This step ensures they maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture, even after sautéing. Plus, by toasting the almonds yourself, you’ll unlock their full flavor potential, making them even more nutty and satisfying.
Green Bean Almondine Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
yield serving size:
Recipe is approximately 1 cup per serving. The entire recipe should yield around 4 cups of Green Bean Almondine, serving 4 people.
Instructions:
Blanch the Green Beans:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and just tender.
- Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
Toast the Almonds:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds.
- Toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the almonds from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic and Shallot:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Cook the Green Beans:
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the garlic and shallot.
- Toss to coat the beans in the butter mixture and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
Finish the Dish:
- Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the toasted almonds.
Serve:
- Transfer the Green Bean Almondine to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional lemon zest or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your Green Bean Almondine as a delightful side dish, perfect for Thanksgiving or any special meal!
Nutritional Facts for Green Bean Almondine (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
please Note:
The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on the specific ingredients listed. The actual nutritional content may vary depending on the brands of ingredients used and the precise measurements. For more accurate results, consider using a nutritional calculator based on your exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Bringing It All Together
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a more intimate holiday dinner, Green Bean Almondine is a side dish that will impress your guests without adding stress to your cooking routine. It’s quick to prepare, easy to execute, and delivers a taste that’s both classic and contemporary.
So this Thanksgiving, as you plan your menu, consider adding Green Bean Almondine to the list. With its delightful combination of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Enjoy your holiday cooking, and happy Thanksgiving!
