Side Dishes > Sautéed Vegetables > Other Vegetables (Sautéed) > Sautéed Green Beans Recipe (with Almonds)

Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

A quick and easy side dish featuring fresh green beans, toasted almonds, and a bright lemon dressing.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Fresh Green Beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Preparing the Green Beans

Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim the ends. You can leave them whole or cut them in half for easier eating. If you prefer a softer texture, blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well.

Toasting the Almonds

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until they are lightly golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sautéing the Green Beans

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the green beans to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.

Finishing Touches

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the toasted almonds, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

  • Calories: Approximately 120-150 kcal
  • Protein: 4-5g
  • Fat: 8-10g (primarily from olive oil and almonds)
  • Carbohydrates: 8-10g
  • Fiber: 3-4g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

For a lower calorie option, reduce the amount of olive oil or almonds. Adding more lemon juice and zest can enhance flavor without adding significant calories. Consider using a salt substitute if sodium intake is a concern.

FAQ

  • Can I use frozen green beans?

    Yes, you can use frozen green beans. There's no need to thaw them before cooking. Simply add them to the skillet and sauté for a few minutes longer until they are heated through and tender-crisp.
  • What if I don't have fresh lemons?

    Bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute, but fresh lemon juice will provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using bottled juice, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
  • Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

    Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You could add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.