How to Make String Beans with Almonds: A Culinary Delight
This simple yet elegant dish involves briefly blanching fresh string beans to maintain their crispness and then sautéing them with butter and toasted almonds for a delicious and nutty side dish that elevates any meal.
Introduction: The Allure of String Beans Amandine
String beans with almonds, often called string beans amandine, is a classic side dish that perfectly balances simplicity with sophistication. The dish elevates humble string beans into something truly special, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crisp-tender beans, the rich buttery sauce, and the crunchy, nutty almonds create a harmonious experience that complements a wide variety of main courses. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Why Choose String Beans Amandine?
Beyond its appealing taste and texture, string beans amandine offers several benefits:
- Nutritional Value: String beans are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. Almonds add healthy fats and protein.
- Ease of Preparation: This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.
- Versatility: String beans amandine pairs well with a wide range of proteins, from chicken and fish to steak and tofu.
- Elegant Presentation: The vibrant green beans and golden-brown almonds create a visually appealing dish that enhances any table setting.
The Perfect String Beans Amandine: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe focuses on fresh ingredients and precise techniques to achieve the best possible result.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh string beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Blanch the String Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the string beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until bright green and crisp-tender.
- Shock the Beans: Immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This preserves their vibrant color and crispness.
- Toast the Almonds: While the beans are blanching, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). Be careful not to burn them. Remove the almonds from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Beans: Drain the string beans thoroughly and pat them dry. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the string beans and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Combine and Season: Stir in the toasted almonds and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the string beans amandine to a serving dish and serve immediately.
Variations and Enhancements
While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste:
- Garlic: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet when sautéing the string beans for extra flavor.
- Shallots: Substitute finely diced shallots for garlic for a more delicate flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives can be added for a fragrant touch.
- Brown Butter: Toast the butter until it turns brown and nutty for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the lemon juice for a brighter, more intense citrus flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Beans: Overcooked string beans become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Blanching them briefly ensures they remain crisp-tender.
- Burning the Almonds: Almonds burn easily, so watch them carefully while toasting. Stir frequently and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn golden brown.
- Using Stale Almonds: Use fresh, high-quality almonds for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using almonds that smell rancid.
- Not Drying the Beans Properly: Waterlogged beans will steam instead of sauté, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Pat them dry thoroughly after blanching.
Equipment Essentials
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Ice bath (bowl filled with ice and water)
- Slotted spoon or tongs
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 200 |
Fat | 15g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Cholesterol | 30mg |
Sodium | 150mg |
Carbohydrates | 10g |
Fiber | 4g |
Protein | 5g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen string beans instead of fresh?
While fresh string beans are preferred, frozen string beans can be used in a pinch. Reduce the blanching time by about a minute, as they are already partially cooked. Make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before sautéing.
How do I trim string beans quickly?
Line up a handful of string beans on a cutting board and trim the ends with a knife. Avoid trimming too much of the bean.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The string beans can be blanched and shocked ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. Toast the almonds just before serving to maintain their crispness. It’s best to serve the dish immediately after sautéing.
What is the best type of almond to use?
Slivered almonds are the most commonly used type for this dish, but sliced or blanched whole almonds can also be used. Adjust the toasting time accordingly.
Can I use a different type of nut?
While almonds are the traditional choice, other nuts like pecans or walnuts can be substituted. They will alter the flavor profile of the dish.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil.
How do I prevent the almonds from burning?
Keep a close eye on the almonds while toasting and stir them frequently. Reduce the heat if they start to brown too quickly.
What wine pairings complement string beans amandine?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish.
How do I store leftover string beans amandine?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The almonds may lose some of their crispness. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the string beans.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet when sautéing the string beans.
What is the origin of the term “Amandine”?
“Amandine” simply means prepared or garnished with almonds in French culinary terminology. It’s a widely used term to describe dishes featuring almonds.