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Crispy Brown Butter Green Beans with Almonds

crispy brown butter green beans with almonds - featured image

A quick and easy side dish featuring crisp-tender green beans tossed in nutty brown butter and toasted almonds, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and washed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds, raw or toasted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
  • Lemon zest from 1 lemon (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim and wash the green beans by snapping off the stem ends and rinsing under cold water. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain well.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir constantly as it foams and browns, about 3-5 minutes, until it smells nutty and turns a rich amber color. Do not let it burn.
  5. Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the drained green beans and toasted almonds to the skillet. Toss gently to coat evenly in the brown butter mixture. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh lemon zest. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Dry beans thoroughly after blanching to avoid splatter. Stir constantly when browning butter to prevent burning. Toast almonds separately for best flavor and crunch. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently in a skillet to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: green beans, brown butter, almonds, side dish, quick recipe, easy, healthy, gluten-free, low-carb