Roasted Green Beans Almondine
Highlighted under: Healthy Plate Inspirations
When I first tried Roasted Green Beans Almondine, I was amazed by how a few simple ingredients could create such a beautiful and flavorful dish. The combination of crunchy almonds and perfectly roasted green beans is not only visually appealing but also delightfully satisfying. I love serving this as a side dish for celebrations or family dinners because it’s easy to prepare and complements different main courses beautifully. Plus, it's a fantastic way to get in those veggies without feeling guilty!
As I prepared this dish for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how roasting the green beans elevated their flavor, making them tender yet crisp. Tossing them with slivered almonds adds a lovely nutty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the beans. I recommend using fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor, and don't be afraid to experiment with seasonings like garlic or lemon zest to give it your personal touch.
One helpful tip I discovered is to ensure your oven is preheated properly before roasting. This small detail can take your dish from good to great, as it helps to achieve those beautiful browned bits on the beans. I also enjoy squeezing a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top before serving to brighten up the dish even further!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy almonds provide a delightful texture contrast
- Vibrant green beans roasted to perfection
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- A nutritious and tasty side dish that everyone will enjoy
Techniques for Perfectly Roasted Green Beans
To achieve perfectly roasted green beans, it’s crucial to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly, leading to a delightful crispness rather than steaming them. Overcrowding can result in soggy beans, so consider using two baking sheets if necessary. Additionally, tossing them halfway through cooking can help achieve even roasting and prevent any burnt spots.
The temperature you set your oven to is also essential. Roasting at 425°F (220°C) gives the beans a beautiful caramelization, enhancing their natural sweetness. If you're aiming for a slightly softer texture, you could lower the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and extend the cook time by a few minutes. Just keep an eye on them and test for tenderness.
Ingredient Insights
Using fresh green beans is key for this dish. Look for beans that are bright green and firm, avoiding any that appear limp or dull. If you can find haricots verts, a thinner variety of green beans, consider using them for a refined texture. They will roast more quickly, so adjust your cooking time accordingly, starting with 10 minutes instead and checking for doneness.
Sliced almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to Roasted Green Beans Almondine. If you don’t have sliced almonds, consider using slivered almonds or even pine nuts in a pinch. Just bear in mind that pine nuts toast more quickly, so add them to the oven later in the roasting process, about 3-5 minutes before the beans are done.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your tasty Roasted Green Beans Almondine!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
Let's get started on roasting those delicious green beans!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve perfectly roasted beans.
Prepare the Green Beans
In a large bowl, toss the trimmed green beans with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Roast the Beans
Spread the green beans out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
Add the Almonds
After 15 minutes, add the sliced almonds to the baking sheet, stirring them with the beans. Roast for another 5-7 minutes until the beans are tender and the almonds are golden.
Serve Hot
Remove from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice (if using) before serving. Enjoy your Roasted Green Beans Almondine!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize this dish by adding other nuts or even some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Adjust the roasting time as needed based on your desired level of crispness.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted Green Beans Almondine makes a lovely side dish for various entrees, from roasted chicken to grilled steaks. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside holiday dishes, where its color and texture contrast beautifully with richer foods. You can also elevate this dish by garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added depth of flavor.
If you're looking to create a complete meal, consider adding a protein, like baked salmon or tofu, atop a bed of these green beans. This not only adds balance to your plate but also creates a vibrant and enticing presentation that will impress your guests.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, reheating them in the oven is preferable. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the beans on a baking sheet, reheating for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the beans mushy.
For meal prep, you can blanch the green beans and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply roast them straight from frozen for about 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C). This method preserves their color and crunch, ensuring a delicious side dish at any time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the green beans and almonds ahead of time and roast them just before serving.
→ What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?
You can substitute the green beans with asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a different twist.
→ Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this dish is entirely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting any cheese.
→ Can I use frozen green beans?
Fresh green beans are recommended, but if using frozen, reduce the roasting time slightly as they may cook faster.
Roasted Green Beans Almondine
When I first tried Roasted Green Beans Almondine, I was amazed by how a few simple ingredients could create such a beautiful and flavorful dish. The combination of crunchy almonds and perfectly roasted green beans is not only visually appealing but also delightfully satisfying. I love serving this as a side dish for celebrations or family dinners because it’s easy to prepare and complements different main courses beautifully. Plus, it's a fantastic way to get in those veggies without feeling guilty!
Created by: Charity Bowen
Recipe Type: Healthy Plate Inspirations
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve perfectly roasted beans.
In a large bowl, toss the trimmed green beans with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread the green beans out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, add the sliced almonds to the baking sheet, stirring them with the beans. Roast for another 5-7 minutes until the beans are tender and the almonds are golden.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice (if using) before serving. Enjoy your Roasted Green Beans Almondine!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize this dish by adding other nuts or even some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Adjust the roasting time as needed based on your desired level of crispness.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g