Green Bean Almondine

Thanksgiving recipes don’t have to be heavy or overly complicated to impress. If you’re looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish to complement your holiday feast, Green Bean Almondine is the perfect choice. With tender-crisp green beans, toasted almonds, and a touch of buttery lemon, this elegant recipe adds freshness and elegance to your Thanksgiving table.

Whether you’re planning a traditional Thanksgiving menu or seeking lighter Thanksgiving recipes, Green Bean Almondine is a nutritious, crowd-pleasing side that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is simple to prepare.

Ingredients for Green Bean Almondine

To make this refreshing and crunchy side dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare Green Bean Almondine efficiently, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Large pot (for blanching the green beans)

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Colander or strainer

• Slotted spoon or tongs

• Microplane or grater (for lemon zest)

• Knife and cutting board

• Mixing bowl (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Follow these clear steps to achieve perfectly cooked green beans with a nutty, buttery twist:

Step 1: Blanch the Green Beans

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender-crisp.

3. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water or run them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them vibrant and crunchy.

4. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.

2: Toast the Almonds

1. In a large, dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds.

2. Stir frequently for 3 to 5 minutes until they become golden and fragrant.

3. Remove almonds from the pan and set aside to prevent over-toasting.

3: Sauté the Garlic and Beans

1. In the same skillet, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant (don’t let it brown).

3. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are warmed through and coated in garlic butter.

4: Add Flavor and Finish

1. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Add the toasted almonds back to the skillet and toss everything gently to combine.

3. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley, if using.

4. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful contrast of crisp beans, nutty almonds, and buttery citrus.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Green Bean Almondine

Use fresh green beans for the best texture and color. Frozen beans can work, but they may become mushy.

Trim the beans evenly so they cook at the same rate.

Don’t skip the blanching step — it locks in color and keeps the beans tender-crisp.

Toast the almonds dry (without oil) to enhance their natural nuttiness and avoid greasiness.

Add shallots or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want to introduce extra depth or heat.

Make it ahead: You can blanch the beans and toast the almonds a day ahead. Sauté everything together just before serving for best results.

• Double the recipe easily for larger gatherings or leftovers.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Based on 6 servings)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredient brands and measurements.

Why Green Bean Almondine Is a Must-Have for Thanksgiving

When browsing Thanksgiving recipes, you’ll find an abundance of rich and hearty dishes. But incorporating a crisp, green side like Green Bean Almondine helps balance the richness of your turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes.

Here’s why it stands out:

Elegant Presentation: The vibrant green beans, golden almonds, and glistening butter look stunning on any Thanksgiving table.

Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a stress-free addition to a busy cooking day.

Crowd-Pleaser: Mild, buttery, and lemony — even picky eaters enjoy this simple dish.

Healthier Option: Compared to heavy casseroles, this recipe is lower in calories and carbs, making it a smart side dish.

Customizable: Add bacon, mushrooms, or shallots to suit your taste or use plant-based butter for a vegan twist.

Whether you’re going traditional or modern this year, this recipe adds texture, freshness, and a bit of crunch that complements the heavier fare commonly found in Thanksgiving recipes.

Make It a Part of Your Thanksgiving Menu

Pair Green Bean Almondine with:

• Classic roast turkey

• Savory stuffing or dressing

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Tangy cranberry sauce

• A hearty pumpkin pie or pecan tart for dessert

By including lighter vegetable-based sides like this, you’ll offer your guests a more well-rounded dining experience while still embracing the holiday spirit.

Final Thoughts

If you’re curating your list of Thanksgiving recipes this year, don’t overlook the power of simplicity. Green Bean Almondine delivers big on flavor, presentation, and ease — everything you need for a successful holiday meal.