Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds
Crisp-tender green beans are quickly sautéed with garlic, sesame oil, and almonds for a vibrant, nutty, and flavorful side dish. Finished in under 20 minutes, this fiber-rich, heart-healthy recipe is a weeknight staple or elegant addition to holiday meals.
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.
