The Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine recipe is a delightful and sophisticated side dish that transforms simple green beans into a culinary masterpiece. This dish, inspired by the renowned Barefoot Contessa, combines tender green beans with the nutty crunch of toasted almonds and a zesty hint of lemon, creating a flavorful and elegant addition to any meal. Perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and always impresses.

Let’s explore the details and learn how to make this classic dish at home.

What is Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine?

Ina Garten’s green beans almondine is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the fresh taste of green beans, enhanced by the rich flavor of almonds and a touch of lemon. It’s perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Nutritious and Delicious: Combines health benefits with great taste.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile Side Dish: Complements a variety of main courses.
Elegant Presentation: Looks beautiful on any dining table.
Minimal Ingredients: Requires only a handful of ingredients.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Needed for Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
1/2 cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions to Make Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

Blanch the green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
Toast the almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add sliced almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Remove almonds and set aside.
Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Combine ingredients: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter. Squeeze lemon juice over the beans and season with salt and pepper.
Add almonds: Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the green beans and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy warm.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

Roast Chicken: Complements the savory flavors.
Grilled Fish: Pairs well with the light, fresh taste.
Mashed Potatoes: Add a creamy counterpart.
Steak: Balances the richness of the meat.
Quinoa Salad: Offers a nutritious side.
Pasta Dishes: Enhances the overall meal.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

Select Fresh Green Beans: Opt for bright, firm beans.
Don’t Overcook: Keep beans crisp-tender.
Toast Almonds Evenly: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Enhances the flavor significantly.
Season Appropriately: Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Serve Immediately: Best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Experiment with Garlic: Adjust the amount to taste.

Variations of Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine

Add Shallots: Sauté with garlic for extra flavor.
Include Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky touch.
Use Different Nuts: Try pecans or walnuts.
Incorporate Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can enhance the dish.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
Lemon Zest: Sprinkle for added citrus aroma.
Butter Alternatives: Use ghee or vegan butter.

Storing Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine: Best Practices

Cool Completely: Ensure beans are at room temperature.
Airtight Container: Use to maintain freshness.
Refrigerate Promptly: Store within two hours of cooking.
Label with Date: Helps track freshness.
Avoid Moisture: Prevents sogginess.
Consume within 3 Days: Ensures best quality.

Reheating Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine: Best Practices

Use a Skillet: Retains texture better than a microwave.
Medium Heat: Prevents overcooking.
Add a Splash of Water: Helps maintain moisture.
Cover Skillet: Ensures even heating.
Stir Frequently: Avoids sticking.
Avoid Overheating: Keeps beans crisp.
Serve Hot: Best enjoyed warm.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 150
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 150mg
Potassium: 230mg
Vitamin A: 15% DV
Vitamin C: 20% DV
Calcium: 6% DV
Iron: 8% DV

FAQs

How do you keep green beans crisp-tender in almondine?

To keep green beans crisp-tender in almondine, blanch them in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This technique preserves their vibrant color and crunch.

Can I make Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Ina Garten Green Beans Almondine ahead of time. Blanch the green beans and toast the almonds separately. Store them in airtight containers and combine with garlic and lemon juice just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.

What type of almonds should I use for Green Beans Almondine?

Use sliced almonds for Green Beans Almondine. Toast them in a skillet with butter and olive oil until golden brown. Sliced almonds provide the perfect texture and nutty flavor for this dish.

How do I store leftovers of Green Beans Almondine?

Store leftovers of Green Beans Almondine in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Green Beans Almondine is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with elegance. It’s perfect for any occasion, easy to prepare, and always a hit at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress and delight. Enjoy the fresh, nutty flavors and the compliments that follow!

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