Zesty Green Bean Almondine with Lemon and Thyme
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Looking for a delightful side dish that elevates any meal? This zesty green bean almondine brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh green beans, crunchy almonds, and zesty lemon, all enhanced with the earthy aroma of thyme. It’s a perfect complement to grilled meats or a simple roasted chicken.
Imagine crisp-tender green beans sautéed to perfection, then tossed with toasted almonds for a satisfying crunch. The bright notes of lemon and the subtle hint of thyme create a refreshing taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.
A Bright and Flavorful Side Dish
This green bean almondine is a fresh, tangy side dish that stands out with its delightful crunch from toasted almonds.
Preparing this dish doesn’t take much time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Its vibrant colors and textures add a beautiful aesthetic to any dinner table.
Ingredients That Shine
The key components of this dish include fresh green beans, which provide a crisp base, and toasted almonds that introduce a satisfying crunch.
Lemon zest and juice infuse a refreshing tang, while fresh thyme brings an earthy note that ties everything together.
Use quality ingredients for the best flavor experience.
Preparation Made Easy
Blanching the green beans is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.
After boiling them briefly, plunging them into ice water locks in their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Toasting the almonds in olive oil and butter creates a rich flavor that enhances the overall dish.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Combining the green beans with the toasted almonds in the skillet allows the flavors to mingle beautifully.
Adding lemon juice and zest at the end ensures a bright burst of flavor that elevates the dish further.
Seasoning with salt and pepper helps to enhance the natural tastes of the ingredients.
Garnishing for Presentation
Serving green bean almondine on a white plate enhances the visual appeal, allowing the vibrant green and golden hues to pop.
Garnishing with lemon wedges and sprigs of thyme adds a touch of elegance, making it suitable for both casual and formal dining.
This simple addition can transform the dish into a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This side dish serves four, providing a nutritious complement to your main course.
With approximately 150 calories per serving, it’s a lighter choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
Pair it with grilled meats or roasted chicken for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.
A Bright and Flavorful Side Dish
This green bean almondine is a fresh, tangy side dish with a delightful crunch from the toasted almonds. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a vibrant addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again.
- Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently.
- Sauté the Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the toasted almonds. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute, stirring to combine.
- Serve: Transfer the green bean almondine to a serving dish and enjoy warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
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