Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Green beans don’t have to be boring, and Ina Garten’s recipe proves it!

The trick to getting them just right is blanching them quickly, so they stay crisp without tasting raw.

Toasting the almonds in butter before adding them to the beans gives them a deeper, richer edge.

Adding a pinch of salt while cooking the beans ensures they’re seasoned from the inside out.

Tossing everything together at the last minute keeps the almonds crunchy and the beans fresh-tasting.

This dish always gets compliments, even from people who don’t usually reach for vegetables first!

How to Make Ina Garten’s Green Beans Almondine

Ingredients

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Boil a large pot of salted water.

Add the green beans and cook them for about 3 minutes until they are tender.

Drain the beans, and immediately rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking.

Step 2:

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the sliced almonds and toast them until they are golden brown.

Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3:

Add the sliced shallot and minced garlic to the skillet.

Cook them for about 2 minutes, stirring often, until the shallot becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 4:

Add the green beans to the skillet.

Toss them with the almond mixture to combine everything nicely.

Stir in the lemon juice and salt, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 5:

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat to warm the beans thoroughly.

Serve the dish hot and enjoy with your favorite meal.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Green Beans

Using fresh green beans enhances the flavor of this dish, adding a crispness to each bite.

Toasting Almonds

Toasting almonds carefully without burning them is essential, as it brings out their nutty flavor and adds a wonderful crunch.

Lemon Zest Boost

Grating a little lemon zest over the dish right before serving can bring an additional zesty flavor that truly brightens up this recipe.

Cooking with Care

Be gentle when stirring the green beans into the almond mixture to keep the beans intact and prevent any unwanted breakages in the dish.

Flexible Seasoning

Feel free to adjust the amount of salt to your preference, or add a dash of black pepper if you like a little extra spice.

What to Serve with Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

Classic Roast Chicken

Pairing green beans almondine with a roast chicken can offer a well-rounded meal.

The classic flavors of roasted poultry complement the nuttiness of the almondine beautifully.

A simple herb-infused roast chicken is a good way to go.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Rich and creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic serve as a comforting side dish.

The creaminess pairs well with the crisp green beans and adds texture contrast.

Wild Rice Pilaf

For something a bit unique, consider a wild rice pilaf.

The earthy tones of wild rice make a wonderful complement to the green beans almondine.

Add some herbs and cranberries for an extra twist that pairs very elegantly.

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled portobello mushrooms can serve as a savory and meaty side option.

Their robust flavors add depth and offer a vegetarian option that holds its own.

Season them with some balsamic glaze to add a bit of sweetness.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Try serving roasted root vegetables for a seasonal touch.

Carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips roasted with herbs can add a deliciously earthy balance.

These provide both color and varied textures to the meal setup.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding Bacon for Savory Flavor

If you’re looking to bring a bacon twist to your green beans Almondine, try adding cooked and crumbled bacon after the almonds.

The bacon adds a savory flavor that’s irresistible!

Enhancing with Cheese

You can enhance the dish with a cheesy touch by sprinkling in some parmesan or your favorite cheese.

The nuttiness of the almonds pairs beautifully with cheese.

Substituting with Pine Nuts

For those who love a blend of different nuts, pine nuts can be an interesting substitute for almonds.

They’re buttery and give a unique flavor, though not as budget-friendly.

Adding a Spicy Kick

If you like a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

This gives the green beans a pleasant heat.

Experimenting with Different Oils

Experimenting with different oils is another great way to change this up.

Try using extra virgin olive oil for a Mediterranean flair or sesame oil for a nutty undertone.

How to Store Leftover Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine Recipe

Refrigeration

Keep those delicious leftovers fresh by placing them in an airtight container.

They’ll stay tasty for up to three days when stored in the refrigerator.

Freezing

You might be tempted to freeze them, but it’s not recommended for this dish.

Freezing can affect the texture of your green beans, leaving them a bit less appetizing.

Ideal Storage Tips

You’ll love how easy it is to store this dish!

Just remember to cool the green beans completely before popping them into the fridge.

This simple step locks in the flavors, keeping them vibrant and ready for your next meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Beans

One common mistake to watch out for is overcooking the green beans, which can make them mushy.

You want the beans to remain crisp and vibrant, so blanch them briefly.

Immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process.

Toasting Almonds

Be careful when toasting the almonds, as they can burn quickly if not monitored closely.

It’s best to stir constantly and keep the heat moderate to ensure they are evenly toasted.

You’ll love the nutty aroma that fills your kitchen!

Skipping Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in the taste and appearance of the dish.

Make sure to choose fresh green beans and a fresh lemon for juice.

These ingredients add vibrant color and zesty flavor to the final dish!