String Bean Amondine
String Bean Amondine features tender green beans topped with toasted almonds and buttery flavors, making it a perfect side dish for family dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the green beans in a 12-inch skillet or a 4-quart saucepan. Bring 1 inch of water to a boil.
- Add the green beans and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl.
- In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced almonds to the melted butter.
- Cook until the almonds are golden brown.
- Spoon the almond and butter mixture over the drained beans.
- Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice to the almond mixture. If you want a nut-free version, you can omit the almonds entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds. For a more robust flavor, try using clarified butter or ghee instead of regular butter. Always taste and adjust the salt before serving to ensure the perfect seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
String Bean Amondine pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it an excellent side for a summer cookout. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted chicken or with a fresh salad like For Goodness Sake Salad. This dish can also complement vegetarian recipes, adding a delightful crunch and rich flavor to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the beans in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of String Bean Amondine contains roughly 135 calories, with 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 484mg per serving (21% 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; just be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking. Frozen beans may need slightly less cooking time, so check for doneness after about 7 minutes of simmering to avoid mushiness.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make String Bean Amondine vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also use toasted pumpkin seeds instead of almonds for a nice crunch without the dairy.
What other nuts can I use in this recipe?
In addition to almonds, you can try using walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to toast them lightly in the butter for added depth. Each nut brings its unique taste and texture, enhancing the dish in various ways.
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).