Classic Green Bean Almondine (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Classic Green Bean Almondine
Classic Green Bean Almondine is a beloved dish that has graced American tables for generations, often served as a side at holiday feasts and family gatherings. This vegan version retains the dish's signature crunch and flavor while swapping out butter for olive oil and omitting any animal products. The result is a fresh, vibrant dish that showcases the green beans' natural sweetness, complemented by the nutty flavor of toasted almonds and a bright squeeze of lemon.
The origins of green bean almondine can be traced back to French cuisine, where it is known as "haricots verts amandine." Traditionally, the dish features sautéed green beans tossed with butter and slivered almonds, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Our vegan adaptation honors this classic while making it accessible to those following a plant-based diet. After all, who says you can't enjoy a little crunch without the dairy?
To prepare this dish, you'll want to start with fresh green beans, which should be bright green and crisp. The key to achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture is to blanch the beans before sautéing them. This method not only preserves their vibrant color but also enhances their natural flavor. As you toast the almonds, keep a close eye on them; they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. And remember, a little lemon juice goes a long way in brightening up the dish, so don’t skimp on that final squeeze!
Whether you're serving this at a holiday gathering or as a simple weeknight side, this vegan green bean almondine is sure to impress. It’s a dish that proves that plant-based cooking can be both delicious and satisfying. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 third cup slivered almonds
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash and trim the ends of 1 pound of fresh green beans, ensuring they are clean and ready for cooking.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. This will be used for blanching the green beans, which helps maintain their bright color and crisp texture.
- Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp, so keep an eye on them.
- While the beans are blanching, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. This will stop the cooking process and keep the beans vibrant.
- After 3-4 minutes, use a slotted spoon to transfer the green beans to the ice bath. Let them sit for about 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute until it shimmers slightly.
- Add 1/3 cup of slivered almonds to the skillet and toast them for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. They should turn golden brown and fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.
- Once the almonds are toasted, add 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1 minute. This will infuse the oil with garlic flavor.
- Next, add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat with the oil, garlic, and almonds. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the green beans. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, tossing to combine.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like a bit more acidity, feel free to add an extra squeeze of lemon juice.
- Transfer the green bean almondine to a serving dish, garnishing with any remaining toasted almonds. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.
- Enjoy your vegan green bean almondine with your favorite main course. This dish pairs beautifully with grains, legumes, or plant-based proteins.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 150
- Carbs g: 10
- Protein g: 4
- Fat g: 12
- Sugar g: 2
