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In the realm of culinary delights, few dishes can boast the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and nutritional benefits that Crunchy Green Beans Delight with Almonds offers. This exquisite side dish not only elevates any meal but also presents a perfect opportunity to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. As health-conscious eating continues to trend, it’s essential to find ways to enjoy vegetables that are both delicious and appealing.

Sautéed Green Beans with Toasted Almonds

Discover the perfect side dish with Crunchy Green Beans Delight featuring toasted almonds. This vibrant recipe combines fresh green beans with the nutty crunch of almonds, garlic, and a hint of lemon for an unforgettable flavor experience. Packed with vitamins and fiber, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether served with grilled chicken or at a summer barbecue, it's sure to impress. Elevate your meals with this simple yet elegant recipe.

Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic, minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

½ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup sliced almonds

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Green Beans: Start by washing the fresh green beans thoroughly and trimming the ends. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and blanch them for about 3 minutes until they turn a vibrant green and are just tender. Afterward, drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. This will halt the cooking process and keep them crisp. After they have cooled for a few minutes, drain the beans again and set them aside.

    Toast the Almonds: In a dry non-stick skillet, heat over medium heat and add the sliced almonds. Toast them for around 2-4 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even browning. You’ll know they’re ready when they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. Once done, remove the almonds from the skillet and set aside to cool.

      Sauté the Green Beans: In the same skillet, add olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic along with the red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant but does not brown, as burnt garlic will alter the flavor.

        Combine Ingredients: Carefully add the blanched green beans to the skillet, sprinkling them with sea salt and black pepper. Sauté the green beans for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender yet still retain their crunch.

          Finish the Dish: Once the beans are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Mix in the lemon juice and lemon zest, ensuring the green beans are thoroughly coated. Gently fold in the toasted almonds, distributing them evenly throughout the dish.

            Serve: Transfer the sautéed green beans to a beautiful serving platter. For an inviting touch, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful crunch!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings

                Optional Presentation Tips: Serve the green beans in a deep dish to emphasize the vibrant green color, and consider placing some extra lemon slices on the side for an added splash of color.