Green Bean Almond
A simple yet flavorful side dish featuring tender green beans coated in toasted almonds and a zesty lemon butter sauce, perfect for holiday dinners or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook green beans until tender and drain.
- Cook the almonds in butter over low heat until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and add salt and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Pour the almond mixture over hot green beans and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Be sure not to overcook the green beans; they should remain bright green and slightly crisp. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using ghee instead of oleo. This dish can also benefit from a touch of garlic or shallots sautéed with the almonds for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Bean Almond dish pairs beautifully with Honey Glazed Pork Chops or can be served alongside roasted chicken for a delightful meal. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it with a hearty grain salad. Garnish with lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the green beans in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the beans soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Bean Almond contains roughly 1 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking. Since they're pre-cooked, reduce the cooking time to ensure they stay crisp.
What can I substitute for oleo?
You can substitute oleo with unsalted butter or a plant-based margarine for a vegan version. Both options will provide a similar texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the almond mixture for some heat. Alternatively, a sprinkle of black pepper on the green beans before serving can also add a nice kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).