Roasted Green Beans Almondine
Highlighted under: Fresh Natural Cooking
I absolutely love the combination of fresh green beans and crunchy almonds, which is why I’m thrilled to share my Roasted Green Beans Almondine recipe with you. The simplicity of roasting these green beans pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of almonds, creating a side dish that's not only delicious but visually stunning on the plate. This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and fancy gatherings. Get ready to elevate your meals with this easy yet impressive dish!
When I first decided to try roasting green beans, I was amazed by how a simple cooking method could elevate such a humble vegetable. I quickly realized that allowing the beans to caramelize in the oven brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to their flavor. Regardless of how many times I've made this dish, I still find myself marveling at the transformation that occurs during cooking.
Another tip I have is to add the almonds halfway through the roasting process. This way, they toast just enough to develop a lovely crunch without burning. It's little details like these that make this recipe so special, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The delightful crunch of almonds complements the tender green beans perfectly.
- A simple roasting technique that intensifies the natural flavors.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
The Role of Ingredients in Roasting
Roasting is a technique that greatly enhances the flavors of the green beans, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge while achieving a delightful tenderness. When the green beans are tossed with olive oil, the heat helps to create a slightly crisp texture on the outside while maintaining a juicy bite inside. The addition of sea salt and black pepper is crucial as they amplify the flavors, making the simple green beans shine on their own. This step is where you can really set a strong foundation for the dish.
The sliced almonds not only provide a satisfying crunch but also add a rich nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft green beans. When almonds roast, they develop a deeper color and flavor; look for them to be golden and fragrant for the best results. If you prefer a different nut, slivered walnuts or pecans could work as substitutes, though they will impart a slightly different flavor profile.
Techniques for Perfect Roasting
When it comes to roasting, even spacing of the green beans on the baking sheet is key. This allows the hot air to circulate around each bean, ensuring they all cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if you're doubling the recipe, it's better to use two sheets than to pile everything onto one. This step prevents steaming and allows for that delectable char that transforms the beans into something special.
Keep an eye on the almonds during the final roasting phase, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly—just a minute or two can make a big difference. If you’re making this recipe in advance, I recommend roasting the almonds separately and adding them just before serving to preserve their crunch. Your guests will appreciate that fresh texture, adding a delightful layer to the dish.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious and healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Make sure to wash the green beans thoroughly before preparing them.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Roasted Green Beans Almondine.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the Green Beans
In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper until well coated.
Roast the Green Beans
Spread the green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Add Almonds
After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet and sprinkle the sliced almonds over the green beans. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the almonds are golden brown.
Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with lemon zest. Toss to combine and serve warm.
Enjoy this elegant dish as a side or a healthy snack!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding minced garlic during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the roasted green beans and almonds separately to prevent sogginess. Place the green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The almonds can be stored in a separate container at room temperature, where they will remain crunchy for about a week. When reheating, pop the green beans in the oven briefly at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to warm them up without losing texture.
Freezing is another option if you want to prepare these beans ahead of time. However, I recommend blanching the fresh green beans before freezing them, as this will preserve their bright color and flavor. Once blanched and cooled, store them in freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy them, roast from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
For a burst of flavor, consider adding crushed garlic or shallots to the green beans before roasting. This addition provides an aromatic boost that complements the dish nicely. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be sprinkled over the beans right before serving, giving the dish an unexpected kick that pairs well with the nutty flavors of the almonds.
This dish is not just limited to being a side; it can also serve as a light main course. Try tossing the roasted green beans with cooked quinoa or couscous, adding some feta cheese and cherry tomatoes for a beautiful salad. The combination will elevate it to a wholesome meal, perfect for a light lunch or a vegetarian-friendly dinner.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but fresh green beans will yield the best texture and flavor.
→ How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Simply replace olive oil with avocado oil if desired.
→ What other nuts can I use?
Feel free to substitute sliced almonds with walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but remember they are best enjoyed fresh!
Roasted Green Beans Almondine
I absolutely love the combination of fresh green beans and crunchy almonds, which is why I’m thrilled to share my Roasted Green Beans Almondine recipe with you. The simplicity of roasting these green beans pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of almonds, creating a side dish that's not only delicious but visually stunning on the plate. This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and fancy gatherings. Get ready to elevate your meals with this easy yet impressive dish!
Created by: Autumn Pierce
Recipe Type: Fresh Natural Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper until well coated.
Spread the green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet and sprinkle the sliced almonds over the green beans. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the almonds are golden brown.
Remove from the oven, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with lemon zest. Toss to combine and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding minced garlic during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 260mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 3g