Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine Recipe

When it comes to green beans, the Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine recipe is a hard one not to love!

This dish combines crisp-tender green beans with toasted almonds, making for a simple yet elegant side.

The key to nailing this recipe is toasting the almonds to a perfect golden brown, which takes just a couple of minutes in a skillet.

Using fresh lemon juice adds a bright note that complements the beans beautifully.

I like this recipe because it’s quick to make, taking only about 20 minutes, which makes it great for any meal.

How to Make Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Green Beans
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1/4 cup Almonds (sliced)
• 1 Shallot (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Boil a pot of water and add 1 teaspoon of salt.

Add green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn bright green and crisp-tender.

Drain and rinse with cold water.

Step 2:

Preheat a skillet over medium heat.

Add sliced almonds and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown.

Set aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add chopped shallot and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant.

Step 4:

Add the cooked green beans back into the skillet.

Toss them with the shallot and garlic mixture.

Sprinkle with lemon juice and season with salt.

Step 5:

Add toasted almonds and give the mixture one more toss.

Serve immediately while warm.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Keep an Eye on the Almonds

Toasting almonds can be tricky as they can burn quickly.

Stir them constantly and remove them from the heat as soon as they are golden brown.

Use Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of green beans matters here.

Choose bright green, firm beans for the best flavor and texture.

Adjust Lemon Juice

If you like more tang, feel free to adjust the lemon juice to suit your taste.

A little extra can brighten up the dish!

Experiment with Add-Ons

If you want to make this dish a bit heartier, consider adding crisp bacon bits or shredded Parmesan cheese.

Both additions work well with the flavor profile!

What to Serve with Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

Roasted Chicken

A classic roasted chicken pairs beautifully with Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine.

The savory flavors of the chicken complement the nuttiness of the almonds.

It’s a comforting combination that has always worked well together in a meal.

Grilled Salmon

Grilled salmon offers a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the green beans almondine.

The light and flaky texture of the fish enhances the overall dining experience.

Adding a wedge of lemon can add a fresh pop of flavor to your plate.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes add a comforting and rich texture beside the crisp green beans.

This traditional pairing never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.

They soak up any extra buttery sauce from the green beans, complementing the flavor.

Couscous Salad

For a lighter alternative, try a couscous salad with fresh vegetables and herbs.

The bright and refreshing flavors work well with the buttery almonds and beans.

It’s a vibrant choice that can add a refreshing element to your meal.

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled portobello mushrooms introduce earthiness to your plate alongside the almondine.

The meaty mushrooms provide a satisfying contrast to the crisp green beans.

This option is perfect for those looking to add a unique and flavorful twist.

Variations and Substitutions

Almond Alternatives

If you’re out of almonds or simply want to try something new, you can substitute walnuts or hazelnuts.

Both offer a delightful crunch and unique flavor that pairs well with green beans.

Toasting them before use enhances their taste and texture, so don’t skip this step!

Lemon Zest Addition

Adding a sprinkle of lemon zest can bring a fresh, citrusy twist to your dish.

Simply grate some over the cooked beans right before serving to elevate the flavors.

It’s a simple but impactful addition that brightens the entire meal.

Butter Substitutions

If you’re looking to make the dish a bit lighter, you can swap butter with olive oil.

This substitution still provides a rich flavor while reducing saturated fat content.

It’s a small change that still supports a delicious final product.

Additional Aromatics

Consider including garlic or shallots for additional depth of flavor.

Sauté either one gently until fragrant before adding the beans to the pan.

This creates a subtle undertone that complements the nuttiness beautifully.

How to Store Leftover Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

Storing leftover Green Beans Almondine is easy and helps keep those fresh flavors for another meal.

First, allow the dish to cool to room temperature.

This step prevents condensation from forming in the storage container, which could make the beans soggy.

Use Airtight Containers

Use airtight containers or heavy-duty resealable bags to store your leftovers.

If you’re using containers, choose those that are sized just right for the amount you have.

It’s best to press out as much air as possible if using bags to help preserve the freshness.

Refrigeration

Once packed, it’s time to pop them into the fridge.

Stored properly, these leftovers can last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Make sure they’re positioned away from any strong-smelling foods to keep the flavors intact.

Freezing Green Beans Almondine

If you want to store them longer, freezing is an option, too.

Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container.

They’ll keep well for up to two months in the freezer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Blanching Step

Blanching is a crucial step that shouldn’t be neglected if you want vibrant, tender green beans.

You should blanch the green beans in boiling water for a few minutes and then immediately transfer them to an ice bath.

This process helps the beans to retain their bright color and crisp texture, which makes a big difference.

Overcooking the Green Beans

It can be all too easy to overcook the green beans, which leads to a mushy texture that no one likes.

You’ll want to aim for that perfect tender-crisp balance, so always keep your eye on the clock.

Green beans should be cooked to a tender-crisp state, which usually takes no more than 10 to 12 minutes.

Forgetting to Toast the Almonds

Toasting almonds enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the dish.

Make sure you toast them in a dry skillet until golden brown on all sides.

Toasted almonds are a small step that gives a satisfying contrast to the tender beans.