A vibrant, crunchy holiday side that pairs perfectly with roasted meats.
This elegant green bean almondine is a holiday lifesaver—ready in 25 minutes with minimal effort. The toasted almonds and bright lemon zest add layers of flavor that elevate any Christmas dinner.
Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply want a quick, refined side, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. The crunch of the almonds and the zing of the lemon create a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dish adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate. It complements roasted turkey, prime rib, or even a cozy Sunday dinner.
With just five ingredients and no need for special equipment, this recipe is all about simplicity and elegance. Let's dive into what makes it work so well.
By the end, you'll see why this dish is a holiday staple for families who value both taste and convenience.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
Ready in 25 minutes with no complicated techniques. Perfect for last-minute holiday prep.
💰 Affordable
Uses pantry staples like almonds and garlic for maximum flavor at minimal cost.
👥 Versatile
Pairs beautifully with turkey, prime rib, or even as a vegetarian main with crusty bread.
🌟 Elegant
Lemon zest and toasted almonds create a refined presentation that impresses guests.
Green Bean Almondine Recipe
A vibrant, holiday-ready side in under 30 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 lb fresh green beans
- - ½ cup sliced almonds
- - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- - 1 tsp grated lemon zest
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
👨🍳 Instructions
Blanch Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking.
💡 Use a slotted spoon for easy transfer between water and ice bath.
Toast Almonds: In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add almonds and cook, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
💡 Watch closely to prevent burning—the difference between perfect and bitter is just 30 seconds!
Cook Beans: Add remaining butter, minced garlic, and blanched beans to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until beans are heated through.
💡 The garlic should become fragrant but not browned—this is your signal to add the lemon zest.
Finish with Zest: Stir in lemon zest and toasted almonds. Cook for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 For extra brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Green Beans
Fresh beans provide the best texture. Use haricots verts for extra crispiness.
Substitutions: Frozen green beans (thaw and pat dry), snap peas, or broccoli florets.
Almonds
Provide crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting enhances their taste significantly.
Substitutions: Walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Lemon Zest
Adds brightness and balances the richness of butter. Use fresh zest, not bottled.
Substitutions: Orange zest or a squeeze of fresh juice.
Garlic
Adds depth without overpowering. Use raw garlic for maximum flavor.
Substitutions: Garlic powder (½ tsp), or omit for a milder version.
Pro Tips for Perfect Green Bean Almondine
🍋 Zest Technique
Use a microplane for fine zest. Avoid the bitter white part of the peel.
🔥 Toasting Almonds
Stir constantly to prevent burning. They'll go from golden to charred in seconds!
❄️ Make-Ahead Tip
Toast almonds up to 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container.
🥗 Serving Suggestion
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for extra color and freshness.
Variations & Customizations
Citrus Twist
Add orange zest alongside lemon for a dual citrus flavor profile.
Herbed Version
Stir in fresh thyme or dill during the final minute of cooking.
Creamy Upgrade
Add 2 tbsp heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer texture.
Vegetarian Boost
Toss with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey with herb stuffing
- Herb-crusted prime rib
- Garlic mashed potatoes
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay to complement the nutty flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Toast almonds up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooked green beans in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add fresh lemon zest before reheating.
Freezer Storage
Freeze raw blananced beans in a single layer for up to 2 months. Add other ingredients when ready to cook.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of lemon zest?
A: Yes, but fresh zest is recommended for maximum brightness. Use ½ tsp dried lemon peel or 1 tsp dried thyme as a substitute.
Q: How to prevent almonds from burning?
A: Use a heavy skillet (stainless steel or cast iron) and stir constantly. If your pan is too hot, reduce heat to medium.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but cook in batches to ensure even toasting. Use two skillets if available.
Q: What to do with leftover green beans?
A: Add to salads, grain bowls, or use as a topping for roasted meats. They keep well for 3-4 days.
Final Thoughts
This green bean almondine is more than just a side—it's a statement. Its vibrant color, satisfying crunch, and aromatic flavors transform any holiday table into a culinary masterpiece.
Whether you're a seasoned chef or a busy host, this recipe proves that elegance doesn't require hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you'll create a dish that's sure to impress.
So what's your favorite garnish for green beans? Share your ideas in the comments below!
