A timeless holiday side that brings elegance to any festive table.
This classic green bean almondine recipe is a holiday staple—crisp, garlicky, and finished with toasted almonds and a bright lemon twist. It’s ready in 20 minutes and pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or a vegetarian main.
Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or a Thanksgiving feast, this dish adds a touch of elegance without effort. Its nutty aroma and vibrant color make it a crowd-pleaser, while the quick preparation ensures you stay stress-free in the kitchen.
The combination of toasted almonds and lemon zest creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and refined. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into a holiday showstopper.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Serve it warm alongside your main course, or let it cool for a refreshing accompaniment to a cheese board.
Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a permanent spot on your holiday menu.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick Holiday Prep
Ready in 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for last-minute holiday cooking. No need for slow roasting or complicated techniques.
Elegant Presentation
Crisp green beans and golden almonds create a visually stunning side that feels festive yet approachable.
Flavor Balance
Toasted almonds add richness, while lemon zest and garlic bring brightness and depth to every bite.
Versatile Pairing
Complements roast turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian main course like stuffed squash. A true holiday workhorse.
Classic Green Bean Almondine
A timeless holiday side with crisp green beans and toasted almonds.
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- - 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- - 1 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
- - Juice of 1/2 lemon
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Green Beans: Fill a large pot with salted water (1 tbsp salt per 4 cups water). Bring to a boil. Add green beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain immediately and ice to stop cooking.
💡 Use a colander and ice bath for perfect texture.
Sauté Almonds: In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add almonds and sauté for 2-3 minutes until golden. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
💡 Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Combine: Add blanched green beans to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through. Add lemon zest and juice. Toss to coat evenly.
💡 Adjust lemon juice to taste.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Green Beans
Use fresh, tender green beans for the best texture. Frozen green beans can be substituted but will require additional cooking time.
Substitutions: Snow peas or broccoli florets.
Almonds
Toasted almonds add richness and crunch. For a different flavor, try pecans or walnuts.
Substitutions: Toasted slivered almonds or hazelnuts.
Lemon
Lemon zest and juice provide brightness. Substitute with a splash of white wine vinegar for a tangy alternative.
Substitutions: Lime juice or balsamic vinegar.
Pro Tips for Perfect Green Bean Almondine
Blanching Technique
Blanching ensures perfect texture. Test a single bean to gauge doneness—should be tender but still crisp.
Toasting Almonds
Toast almonds in a dry skillet first for maximum flavor. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Lemon Zest
Use a microplane for fine zest. Avoid the bitter pith by zesting only the yellow part.
Serving Temperature
Serve warm for best flavor. Reheat gently in a skillet if needed.
Variations & Customizations
Herb-Infused Version
Add fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic twist.
Cheesy Twist
Sprinkle grated Parmesan or pecorino over the finished dish for extra richness.
Vegetarian Boost
Add diced cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for color and flavor.
Citrus Variations
Use orange zest instead of lemon for a sweeter profile.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey with gravy
- Herb-roasted ham
- Stuffed squash with quinoa
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir to complement the dish’s brightness.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Blanch and toast almonds up to 24 hours ahead. Store separately and combine just before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispness.
Freezer Storage
Freeze blanched beans in a single layer. Freeze almond mixture separately. Reheat together when ready to serve.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why are my green beans soggy?
A: Overcooking is the culprit. Test a single bean during blanching and reduce cooking time by 30 seconds.
Q: Can I use pre-toasted almonds?
A: Yes, but add them during the last 2 minutes of cooking to avoid greasiness.
Q: How to fix bland flavor?
A: Add a pinch of sea salt during blanching and finish with extra lemon juice.
Final Thoughts
This classic green bean almondine recipe is a holiday essential—simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can create a memorable dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a first-time holiday host, this recipe delivers consistent results. Its quick preparation and versatile pairing options make it a must-have on any festive table.
