There’s something undeniably charming about the simplicity of a classic dish, and Classic Green Beans Almondine epitomizes that appeal. Picture this: the bright green of freshly cooked beans glistening as they’re tossed in a rich, buttery blend adorned with toasted almonds. I often find myself preparing this dish when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

One particular evening, I found inspiration in my garden, where the green beans seemed to beckon me. The aroma of shallots and garlic sizzling in butter filled my kitchen, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. With a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and a sprinkling of kosher salt to enhance the flavor, this side dish becomes a standout on any table.

Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply craving a fresh take on weeknight veggies, this recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will have you forgetting about fast food altogether. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious green beans almondine!

Why will you love Classic Green Beans Almondine?

Effortless Preparation: This dish requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs.

Elevated Flavors: The toasted almonds and aromatic garlic create a delightful contrast to the vibrant green beans.

Versatile Side Dish: Enjoy it alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or as a standout vegetarian option.

Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality side in no time.

Impressive Presentation: The beautiful colors and textures make this dish a showstopper at any gathering.

Say goodbye to mundane meals and explore more ideas for delicious side dishes like this one!

Classic Green Beans Almondine Ingredients

For the Green Beans
• Green beans or haricots verts – fresh, vibrant green beans make all the difference in this Classic Green Beans Almondine recipe.

For the Toasted Almonds
• Unsalted butter – provides a rich flavor; I recommend using unsalted to control the seasoning.
• Sliced raw almonds – toasting them enhances the nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

For the Aromatics
• Shallot – adds a mild sweetness and complexity; you can substitute with a yellow onion if needed.
• Garlic – finely chopped garlic infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and flavor.

For Finishing Touches
• Fresh lemon juice – a squeeze brightens the dish and balances the flavors beautifully.
• Kosher salt – enhances taste; remember to save some for the boiling water.

How to Make Classic Green Beans Almondine

Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This will infuse the green beans with flavor as they cook.
Cook Green Beans: Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 3–5 minutes. You want them vibrant and bright green!
Shock in Ice Water: Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This will halt the cooking process and retain that beautiful color.
Melt Butter: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Let it become bubbly and fragrant—this will be the base of our flavor.
Toast Almonds: Add the sliced almonds to the skillet and toast until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure they don’t burn.
Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the shallots and garlic, cooking until softened, which should take another 2–3 minutes. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen!
Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice along with the remaining tablespoon of butter. This will create a luxurious sauce.
Mix Everything: Toss the cooked green beans with the almond mixture until they’re well-coated and colorful.
Season and Serve: Sprinkle kosher salt to taste and serve immediately for the best flavor experience. Enjoy your glorious side dish!

Optional: Garnish with additional lemon zest for an extra zing!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Classic Green Beans Almondine?

Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that complement the vibrant flavors and textures of this classic dish.

Roasted Chicken: The savory, juicy meat pairs perfectly with the bright, buttery beans, making for a nourishing plate.
Grilled Salmon: The flaky fish adds a luxurious touch, while the lemony green beans echo the freshness of the sea.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, wholesome grain brings a chewy texture that balances the crunch of the almonds, creating a satisfying bite.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy potatoes provide a comforting contrast, absorbing the rich flavors from the green beans.
Herb-Infused Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs adds an aromatic flavor profile, drawing out the herbal notes in your beans.
Toasted Garlic Bread: Crunchy, garlicky bread makes for a delicious accompaniment that you can use to scoop up the beans, adding extra flavor.

For a refreshing drink, consider a Crisp Sauvignon Blanc; its acidity complements the lemon in the beans wonderfully, enhancing your dining experience as you savor each bite.

Tips for the Best Classic Green Beans Almondine

Choose Fresh Beans: Opt for firm, vibrant green beans or haricots verts. Freshness is key for enhancing the flavor of this Classic Green Beans Almondine.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time; tender-crisp beans retain their bright color and nutrients. Overcooking makes them mushy!
Cool Quickly: Shocking the beans in ice water not only stops the cooking but also locks in color and crunch. Don’t skip this step!
Toast Wisely: Watch the almonds carefully while toasting; they can go from golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stir them often for even browning.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the kosher salt before serving. Each batch of beans may require a different amount for perfect flavor balance.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Green Beans Almondine are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the green beans by blanching and shocking them in ice water up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. For the almond mixture, toast the almonds and sauté the shallots and garlic, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their vibrant color and crunch, keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your dish, just toss the cold beans with the almond mixture and a quick reheat to warm everything through—resulting in restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort!

Classic Green Beans Almondine Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic dish that will bring excitement to your table!

Vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter to keep it plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
Nut-Free: Omit the almonds and replace them with sunflower seeds or toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture.
Cheesy: Add grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese just before serving for a savory, creamy touch. This adds a wonderful salty depth to each bite.
Spicy: For a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or toss in diced jalapeños with the shallots and garlic for an unexpected heat.
Herb-Infused: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil on top right before serving to elevate the flavors with a lovely aroma.
Citrus-Zing: Experiment with lime juice or orange juice instead of lemon for a cheerful twist that brings a different layer of brightness.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche after combining the beans and almond mixture for a richer, luxurious texture.
Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze just before serving to add a tangy sweetness that beautifully complements the green beans.

How to Store and Freeze Classic Green Beans Almondine

Fridge: Store any leftover Classic Green Beans Almondine in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish after cooking and cooling; keep in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the frozen green beans in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or butter to revive the flavors and texture.

Freshness Tip: To maintain brightness, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving when reheating.

Classic Green Beans Almondine Recipe FAQs

What kind of green beans should I use for Classic Green Beans Almondine?
For the best results, I recommend using fresh, vibrant green beans or haricots verts. Look for beans that are firm and crisp, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. Freshness will enhance the flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite!

How should I store leftover Classic Green Beans Almondine?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you reheat them, do so gently over low heat in a skillet; this will help maintain their wonderful texture and flavor. A splash of water or a bit of butter can give them a lovely sheen!

Can I freeze Classic Green Beans Almondine?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a little olive oil or butter will help revive the flavors beautifully!

What if my almonds burn while toasting?
If your almonds happen to burn while toasting, don’t worry! This can happen easily as they toast quickly. If you notice a burnt smell or dark color, it’s best to start over with fresh almonds to ensure your Classic Green Beans Almondine isn’t compromised in flavor. Keep stirring frequently while toasting to avoid burning!

Are there any dietary considerations for Classic Green Beans Almondine?
Great question! This recipe is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, if you or your guests have nut allergies, you may omit the almonds entirely or substitute with seeds, such as sunflower seeds, for that delightful crunch! Always double-check with guests to ensure everyone can safely enjoy this dish.