Roasted Green Beans Almondine
Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome
I love making Roasted Green Beans Almondine because it's a simple yet elegant side dish that elevates any meal. The combination of crisp-tender green beans and toasted almonds creates a delightful texture and flavor. With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, I appreciate how the bright green color adds a pop of freshness to my plate, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
During one of my recent family dinners, I decided to make Roasted Green Beans Almondine, and it was a hit! The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in roasting the beans at a high temperature, which brings out their natural sweetness while keeping them crisp. I made sure to toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them on the baking sheet, ensuring every bean was coated well for maximum flavor.
After roasting, I topped the beans with toasted almonds and a squeeze of lemon juice, which brightened the overall dish. I've learned that this simple addition elevates the flavor profile and adds a refreshing contrast to the earthiness of the beans. It’s a dish I’ll confidently serve at gatherings, knowing it will impress everyone!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten any meal
- Crunchy almonds provide a fantastic texture contrast
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Essential Ingredient Roles
Fresh green beans are the star of this dish, contributing a vibrant color and satisfying crunch. When selecting green beans, look for those that are bright green, firm, and snap easily when bent. This indicates freshness and optimal texture. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness, while a bit of char adds depth of flavor, so don’t be afraid of letting them brown slightly!
The almonds play a crucial role in creating a contrast to the green beans. They not only add a delightful crunch but also a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish. Toasting them in a dry skillet not only intensifies their flavor but also ensures they achieve a golden brown hue, which elevates the dish visually. Keep an eye on them as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quite quickly!
Perfecting Your Roasting Technique
Roasting the green beans at 425°F (220°C) is key to achieving that ideal crispy yet tender texture. This high temperature allows for caramelization, which deepens the flavors. To ensure even cooking, spread the beans out in a single layer on the baking sheet without overcrowding; otherwise, they will steam rather than roast. If they're crowded, consider using two baking sheets and rotating their positions halfway through roasting.
Tossing the beans halfway through cooking is not just for even cooking but also to prevent sticking. If you notice them clumping together or sticking to the pan, adding a bit more olive oil can help achieve that glossy sheen. Aim for the beans to be bright green with slightly charred edges when finished. This visual cue means they are perfectly roasted and ready to take on the toasty almonds.
Serving and Customization Ideas
For an added burst of freshness, serve Roasted Green Beans Almondine with a citrus wedge on the side or over a bed of quinoa. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more substantial. If you're hosting, consider pairing these beans with roasted meats or fish to create a harmonious meal. Their bright color adds visual appeal to any plate.
This recipe is highly versatile; try adding garlic or shallots during roasting for an extra layer of flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure the almonds are processed in a gluten-free facility. Additionally, you can easily scale the recipe up for larger gatherings or scale it down for a quiet dinner. Just remember to adjust the roasting time if you're using a larger quantity of beans.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Green Beans Almondine
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Green Beans
In a large bowl, toss the trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Roast the Green Beans
Spread the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.
Toast the Almonds
While the green beans are roasting, place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant.
Combine and Serve
Once the green beans are tender and slightly charred, remove them from the oven. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted almonds and lemon juice. Add lemon zest if desired for extra brightness.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the green beans during the last five minutes of roasting. You can also experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a unique twist.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this may result in soggy beans, losing the delightful crunch.
Freezing is another option if you want to extend their shelf life. To freeze, blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking. Once cooled, drain them well, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to a year in the freezer, making them a convenient addition to future meals.
Dietary Substitutions
For a nut-free version, consider substituting sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of almonds. They will still provide a similar crunch and a different flavor profile that pairs well with the green beans. Additionally, you might experiment with different oils; avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor that works well for roasting.
If you're looking to make this dish vegan, simply omit the lemon juice or make sure it's fresh-pressed as some bottled juices contain added sugars or preservatives. Furthermore, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy, making it a great addition for those on a plant-based diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but fresh green beans will give a better texture. If using frozen, adjust the roasting time accordingly.
→ What other nuts can I use?
Pine nuts or chopped pecans are great alternatives to almonds.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the green beans and almonds separately and combine them just before serving.
Roasted Green Beans Almondine
I love making Roasted Green Beans Almondine because it's a simple yet elegant side dish that elevates any meal. The combination of crisp-tender green beans and toasted almonds creates a delightful texture and flavor. With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, I appreciate how the bright green color adds a pop of freshness to my plate, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Created by: Lacey Montgomery
Recipe Type: Freshly Wholesome
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Green Beans Almondine
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, toss the trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Spread the green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.
While the green beans are roasting, place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant.
Once the green beans are tender and slightly charred, remove them from the oven. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted almonds and lemon juice. Add lemon zest if desired for extra brightness.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the green beans during the last five minutes of roasting. You can also experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a unique twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 4g