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This Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic and Almonds recipe is a shining example of how a few wholesome ingredients can create a standout side dish.
What makes this dish truly special is its perfect balance of flavor and nutrition—toasty almonds provide a crunchy contrast, while garlic and sesame oil infuse the beans with deep, savory notes.
With only 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a holiday table.
Health-wise, it’s a fiber-rich, low-carb, and plant-powered option that’s also low in saturated fat.
The green beans deliver essential vitamins A and C, while almonds add a boost of plant-based protein and healthy fats that support heart health.
This dish satisfies without being heavy, making it a great everyday choice for clean eating or balanced meal prep.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Calphalon Classic Nonstick Skillet (12-Inch)
Perfect for evenly sautéing green beans without sticking. The wide surface area allows for even browning and fast cooking, making it ideal for all types of sautéed veggies.
OXO Good Grips Silicone Spatula
A heat-resistant tool that’s perfect for gently stirring the green beans and almonds without damaging the nonstick coating. Great for folding, flipping, and serving.
Chef’n FreshForce Garlic Press
Efficiently extracts maximum flavor from fresh garlic with minimal effort—no more mincing by hand. A kitchen essential for any garlic-based dish.
Prepara Herb Savor Pod
Keeps fresh herbs like garlic cloves fresher for longer in the fridge. Ideal for cooks who love using aromatics in everyday recipes.
Cuisinart Mini Prep Plus Food Processor (Optional)
Great for quickly slicing almonds if you’re using whole ones, and for making small-batch pestos or dressings to drizzle on top.
Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds
Equipment
- 1 large nonstick skillet – for sautéing beans and almonds
- 1 silicone spatula – for stirring and flipping without scratching cookware
- 1 Garlic Press – For easily mincing fresh garlic.
- 1 measuring spoon set – for accurately measuring oil, salt, and sugar
- 1 small bowl – optional, for prepping seasonings ahead of time
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans ends trimmed
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or use another tablespoon of sesame oil if preferred
- 1 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
- 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup slivered sliced, or shaved almonds
Instructions
- Prep the Green Beans: Rinse the green beans under cold water and pat them completely dry using a kitchen towel. This prevents splattering and helps them sauté more effectively.
- Sear the Green Beans: In a large nonstick skillet or sauté pan, heat both sesame oil and olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the green beans and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly blister the skins and begin the cooking process.
- Infuse with Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Mix well to evenly coat the beans. Then, add the almonds and continue to sauté everything together.
- Cook Until Tender: Let the mixture cook for another 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently. The green beans should become fork-tender, and the almonds should toast to a golden brown, releasing a rich, nutty aroma.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and allow the beans to rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the flavors meld and gives the almonds a bit of extra crunch. Serve warm as a nutritious and flavorful side.
Notes
- Customize the Flavor: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving for a gourmet twist.
- Cooking Tip: Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—if needed, sauté the green beans in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
- Almond Options: Slivered, sliced, or shaved almonds all work well here. For deeper flavor, toast them separately in a dry skillet before adding.
- Garlic Watch: Garlic can burn quickly—add it just as the green beans start to soften, and keep stirring to avoid scorching.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain texture.
Chef’s Secrets for Crisp Flavor
Achieving the perfect sautéed green beans lies in the details.
One of the most important steps is drying the beans thoroughly after rinsing—excess moisture will cause them to steam rather than sauté, resulting in a limp texture.
Using a mix of sesame oil and olive oil offers both flavor and high-heat stability, helping the beans blister slightly while staying tender-crisp.
Adding garlic after the beans have had a quick sear is key; garlic burns fast, and stirring it in mid-way ensures it cooks gently and flavors the dish without turning bitter.
The brown sugar subtly enhances the natural sweetness of green beans while helping the almonds caramelize.
For an extra touch of luxury, toast the almonds separately before tossing them in—this enhances their nuttiness and gives the dish a satisfying crunch.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
This vibrant side dish pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals.
Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a seared tofu steak for a balanced plate.
It also adds color and texture to grain bowls or holiday spreads.
For a Mediterranean twist, top the beans with a dollop of whipped feta or a few crumbles of goat cheese.
If you’re leaning into an Asian-inspired meal, try drizzling the green beans with a splash of soy sauce or a touch of chili oil.
These sautéed green beans are also fantastic as a room-temperature side at potlucks or picnics—they hold their flavor and texture well, even after cooling.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
If you have leftovers, allow the green beans to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, sauté them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which helps maintain their crisp texture.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the almonds soft and the beans soggy.
If you’re meal-prepping, you can trim and blanch the green beans in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days and sauté just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but fresh green beans provide a firmer, more satisfying texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to reduce excess moisture before sautéing.
2. What can I substitute for almonds?
If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different texture, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both add crunch and a toasty flavor without nuts.
3. How do I avoid soggy green beans?
Make sure the beans are completely dry before cooking, and use a hot skillet with enough oil to sear rather than steam them. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the beans and almonds up to a day ahead. Store separately and reheat together in a skillet just before serving.
5. Is this dish gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, as written, this recipe is both gluten-free and vegan. Just double-check the brown sugar source if you’re cooking for someone with strict dietary needs, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
This recipe is inspired by lecremedelacrumb and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.