Green beans with almond and lemon dressing

Green beans with almond and lemon dressing is a vibrant side dish that marries the crunch of almonds with zesty lemon. This quick recipe takes under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions.

14 Nov 2025
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup almonds
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp black pepper
4 cups green beans

Green beans with almond and lemon dressing is a vibrant and nutritious side dish that's both simple and flavorful. This dish combines the crunchiness of almonds with the zestiness of lemon, creating a perfect accompaniment to any meal. It's a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive dinners.

Instructions:

1. Toast the Almonds:
- Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the almonds and toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from heat and let them cool.
- Once cooled, roughly chop the toasted almonds and set them aside.

2. Prepare the Green Beans:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- While waiting for the water to boil, wash and trim the green beans.
- Once the water is boiling, add the green beans and cook them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.
- Immediately drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain the green beans again and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

3. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well mixed.

4. Assemble the Dish:
- Place the green beans in a large serving bowl.
- Pour the lemon dressing over the beans and toss to coat them evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped toasted almonds over the top.

5. Serve:
- Transfer the dressed green beans to a serving platter and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Green Beans with Almond and Lemon Dressing!

This Green beans with almond and lemon dressing recipe is a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of fresh green beans, nutty almonds, and zesty lemon creates a refreshing and satisfying dish. It's not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for you and your family. Enjoy this dish as a side or even as a light, refreshing main course.

Green beans with almond and lemon dressing FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftovers of green beans with almond and lemon dressing?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, but note that the texture of the green beans may change.

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like walnuts or pine nuts. Just make sure to toast them for extra flavor if desired.

How do I know when the green beans are cooked properly?

Green beans should be cooked until they are tender but still crisp, usually about 4-5 minutes in boiling water. They should be bright green in color and easily snap when bent.

Can I make the lemon dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon dressing in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but whisk it again before using as the ingredients may separate.

What pan size is best for cooking the green beans?

A large pot is recommended to boil the green beans, ideally one that can hold at least 4 quarts to allow enough space for the beans to cook evenly.

Cooking Tips:

- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, then quickly transfer them to an ice bath to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

- Toast the almonds lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat to enhance their flavor before chopping them.

- You can use a microplane to zest the lemon, ensuring you only get the yellow part of the peel and avoid the bitter white pith.

- Mix the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper together in a small bowl to create the dressing before tossing it with the green beans.

- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a dash of garlic powder to the dressing.

Nutrition Facts

8 Servings
Calories 63kcal
Protein 3.18g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 3.79g
Sugar 4.00g
Fat 4.42g

Green beans with almond and lemon dressing