Green Beans Almondine

By The Reluctant Gourmet

Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans (trimmed)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
cup sliced almonds
1 small shallot (fine minced)
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon lemon zest
salt and black pepper (to taste)

Prep Time10mins
Cook Time10mins
Servings4

Instructions

Blanch the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 23 minutes, until crisp-tender and bright green.

Shock in ice water: Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Toast the almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add sliced almonds and stir frequently until golden and fragrant, about 23 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté aromatics (optional): Add remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the shallot and garlic for 1 minute until soft and fragrant (skip if going ultra-simple).

Finish the beans: Add the green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat and heat through for 23 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper.

Top and serve: Sprinkle with toasted almonds and serve immediately.