Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans: The Fresh, Flavorful Side Your Thanksgiving Needs!

Thanksgiving isn’t complete without green beans, and this year, why not elevate them to a whole new level? Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans add brightness and a satisfying crunch to the Thanksgiving spread. With a burst of lemon and toasted almond slices, this recipe perfectly balances heavier sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing, providing a fresh, flavorful contrast. In this guide, we’ll explore why Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans make an ideal addition to your holiday table, address common questions about the dish, and offer tips to make it unforgettable.

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What is Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans?

This recipe is a fresh twist on the classic green beans almondine, a French dish traditionally made by topping blanched green beans with buttery, toasted almonds. By incorporating lemon zest, we add a new level of brightness that complements the nuttiness of the almonds and the tenderness of the beans. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s easy to make, beautifully vibrant, and irresistibly delicious.

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Why Choose Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans for Thanksgiving?

1. Balances the Richness – With many Thanksgiving dishes being rich or creamy, adding a fresh side with citrus and almond crunch brings balance.
2. Simple Yet Sophisticated – Green beans almondine is a timeless dish that feels fancy without requiring tons of ingredients.
3. Quick to Prepare – This dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice when oven space and time are limited.
4. Diet-Friendly – Naturally gluten-free and suitable for many dietary needs, it’s an ideal choice for accommodating different guests.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans

1. How Do You Make Sure Green Beans Are Crisp?

The key to crisp green beans is blanching. To blanch, add fresh green beans to boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, then quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. This technique ensures the beans are tender yet crisp and bright green.

2. How Do You Add Lemon Zest Without Making It Overpowering?

Lemon zest brings out a fresh aroma without the acidity of lemon juice. Add zest sparingly to avoid an overpowering taste. Usually, the zest of half a lemon is perfect for this recipe, but feel free to adjust based on preference.

3. Can I Use Frozen Green Beans?

Yes, frozen green beans work well and offer convenience. However, thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid any excess water that might make them soggy.

4. Is This Dish Suitable for Other Occasions?

Absolutely! Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans are a versatile side dish, ideal for any dinner party or holiday. The dish complements both heavy and light main courses, from roasts to grilled seafood.

5. How Do You Toast Almonds Perfectly?

Place almond slices in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. Watch closely as they turn golden—this should only take a few minutes. Toasted almonds bring a warm, nutty flavor and a lovely crunch to the dish.

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Step-by-Step Recipe for Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 1/3 cup almond slices
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans: Start by blanching the green beans in salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath immediately to maintain their bright color and crunch.
2. Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the almond slices for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until golden brown. Set aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Beans: In the same skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the blanched green beans and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender and warm.
4. Add Lemon Zest: Sprinkle the lemon zest over the beans, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
5. Combine: Add the toasted almonds and give everything a final toss.
6. Serve Warm: Transfer to a serving dish, and enjoy this fresh, citrusy, nutty side!

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Tips for the Perfect Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans

• Don’t Skip the Ice Bath: To keep green beans bright and crisp, always transfer them to an ice bath after blanching.
• Control the Lemon: Start with a little lemon zest and add more if desired. The zest adds aroma without making the dish sour.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add more flavor and a lovely garnish.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute olive oil for butter to make this dish vegan-friendly.

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Nutritional Benefits:

This dish is low in calories and packed with nutrients:

• Green Beans: High in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.
• Almonds: Packed with vitamin E, healthy fats, and protein.
• Lemon Zest: Adds vitamin C, essential for immune health and vibrant skin.

A serving of Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans can provide around 100 calories, 4 grams of protein, and a good amount of dietary fiber. It’s the perfect way to add a healthful dish to your Thanksgiving feast!

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Why Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans Stand Out

Adding lemon zest to classic green beans almondine elevates the flavor profile. It makes the dish feel lighter, more refreshing, and complements the richness of Thanksgiving classics like stuffing and mashed potatoes. Plus, the almonds add both taste and texture, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft beans.

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Conclusion

Lemon Zest Almondine Green Beans are more than just a side dish; they’re a refreshing addition that can bring balance to your Thanksgiving table. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying an intimate meal, these green beans add a burst of flavor and vibrant color. This easy, tasty side might just become one of your go-to dishes all year round!

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