MSG Free Classic Green Beans Almondine
Few side dishes are as quietly impressive as this French bistro classic, and the ingredient list is refreshingly short and clean. Fresh green beans get a quick blanch to lock in that vivid color and satisfying snap, then land in a skillet of nutty browned butter loaded with toasted almonds and golden garlic. The lemon juice and optional zest at the finish cut right through the richness, making every bite feel bright and balanced. Because every component here is a whole, single-ingredient food — no seasoning packets, no bouillon, no bottled sauces — there's zero guesswork about hidden additives. That matters a lot when you're trying to keep meals clean, since flavor enhancers have a way of sneaking into even the most innocent-looking pantry staples. The technique does all the heavy lifting: browning the butter and toasting the almonds builds deep, complex flavor that tastes like far more effort than it actually is. This one is elegant enough for a holiday table but easy enough to pull off on a Tuesday night.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tsp salt, plus more for the blanching water
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the green beans and cook until bright green and crisp-tender, about 3–4 minutes. Drain through a colander and immediately spread on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to dry.
- 2
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, swirling occasionally, until the foam subsides and the butter turns a light golden-brown and smells nutty, about 3–4 minutes.
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