Ginger Free Lemon Green Beans Almondine
Crisp green beans tossed in nutty browned butter, toasted almonds, and a bright hit of lemon — this is the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show at the dinner table. The technique here is simple but makes all the difference: blanching the beans in well-salted water locks in that vivid green color and tender-crisp bite before they ever hit the pan. Browning the butter low and slow adds a rich, almost caramel-like depth that elevates the whole dish without any complicated steps. Toasted sliced almonds bring a satisfying crunch, while the garlic softens just enough to mellow into the sauce rather than overpower it. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end cuts through the richness and ties everything together beautifully. For anyone avoiding ginger — which tends to sneak into Asian-inspired green bean dishes and many store-bought seasoning blends — this recipe is a clean, confident choice with zero hidden surprises. It's elegant enough for a holiday spread but easy enough to pull off on a weeknight.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
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 tender-crisp, about 3–4 minutes. Drain through a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water until cool to the touch, then shake off excess water.
- 2
Melt the butter in a 12-inch 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.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!