These Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic and Almonds are a quick, flavorful side that transforms everyday green beans into a satisfying, nutrient-packed dish.
Rich in fiber and plant-based protein from almonds, and low in saturated fat, this recipe combines wholesome ingredients for a guilt-free, heart-healthy option.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or pairing with any protein, it’s simple, fast, and delicious.
Almond Sauteed Green Beans
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or sauté pan
- 1 cutting board
- 1 chef’s knife
- 1 spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or additional 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- ⅓ cup sliced slivered, or shaved almonds
Instructions
- Prepare Fresh Green Beans: Begin by thoroughly washing the green beans under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once clean, use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to trim the ends of each bean. Pat the beans completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels—this helps them sauté evenly and prevents excess moisture from steaming them instead of lightly browning.
- Heat the Skillet with Oils: Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and allow it to warm for a minute. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Allow the oils to heat until they shimmer slightly, but avoid letting them smoke. The combination of oils provides a rich, nutty base flavor and ensures even cooking.
- Begin Sautéing the Green Beans: Add the dried green beans to the hot skillet, spreading them out in a single layer as much as possible. Sauté the beans for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat them evenly in the oil. At this stage, the goal is to slightly soften the beans while starting to build a light, golden color.
- Add Aromatics and Seasoning: Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Add 2 teaspoons of brown sugar as well. Stir thoroughly so the garlic and seasonings evenly coat the beans. The garlic will infuse the beans with a fragrant aroma, and the brown sugar will help balance the flavors with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Introduce the Almonds: Add ⅓ cup of slivered, sliced, or shaved almonds to the skillet. Gently fold the almonds into the green beans so they begin to toast slightly and mingle with the garlic and seasoning. Stir frequently to prevent the almonds from burning while allowing them to release their nutty aroma.
- Continue Cooking Until Tender: Reduce the heat slightly to medium-low and continue sautéing for approximately 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes. Test the beans for doneness by piercing one with a fork—it should slide in easily while still retaining a slight crunch. This ensures the beans are tender but not mushy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: Once cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the green beans and almonds to cool for 2–3 minutes. This short rest lets the flavors meld together and makes them easier to serve.
- Optional Finishing Touches: For an extra layer of flavor, consider sprinkling a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese or drizzling a teaspoon of balsamic glaze over the beans just before serving. These additions enhance the dish’s complexity without overpowering the natural nutty, garlicky flavor of the sautéed green beans.
- Plate and Serve: Transfer the green beans with almonds to a serving dish. Serve warm as a side to your favorite protein—chicken, beef, fish, or pork. This dish also pairs beautifully with grains like rice or quinoa for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Notes
- Always dry green beans thoroughly before cooking to avoid steaming and ensure a crisp-tender texture.
- Slice or shave almonds uniformly to allow even toasting and prevent burning.
- Adjust salt, pepper, and brown sugar to taste; a little sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the beans.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute all olive oil with sesame oil or add a touch of butter at the end.
- This dish cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on the beans to preserve their vibrant color and crunch.
Chef’s Secrets: Insider Cooking Techniques Explained
The secret to perfectly sautéed green beans lies in layering flavors while maintaining texture.
Start by heating oils until shimmering—this ensures the beans sear rather than steam.
Adding garlic slightly later prevents it from burning while still releasing its aroma.
Toasting almonds in the same pan allows them to absorb some of the flavorful oil, giving each bite a balanced nutty crunch.
Using a combination of sesame and olive oil enhances both flavor depth and mouthfeel.
Lastly, cook over medium to medium-low heat for even browning without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Pairing Ideas
These sautéed green beans with almonds make a versatile side dish.
They pair beautifully with roasted or grilled chicken, seared fish, or tender pork chops.
For a vegetarian or plant-forward meal, serve alongside quinoa, rice, or a grain salad.
To elevate presentation and flavor, finish with a light sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
They also work well as part of a holiday or dinner party spread.
Storage Tips: Keep Fresh And Tasty
To store leftovers, allow the green beans to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days; gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crisp-tender texture.
Avoid microwaving directly from the fridge, as this can make the beans soggy.
Almonds may lose their crunch over time, so for longer storage, keep them separately in a small container and add just before serving.
This method preserves flavor and texture perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen green beans instead?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but thaw and pat them dry before cooking. Excess moisture can make sautéing difficult and reduce crispness. Cooking time may need slight adjustment to achieve tender-crisp results.
2. Can I replace almonds with other nuts?
Absolutely! Cashews, pecans, or walnuts can substitute almonds. Toast them lightly to enhance flavor and maintain crunch. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on nut type.
3. Is this recipe suitable for low-sodium diets?
Yes, simply reduce the added salt or use a low-sodium alternative. The natural flavors of garlic, almonds, and lightly caramelized brown sugar keep the dish flavorful without relying solely on salt.
4. How can I make this recipe vegan or plant-based?
This recipe is already plant-based. If adding optional Parmesan, you can either omit it or use a plant-based cheese substitute to maintain vegan compliance.
5. Can I meal prep this dish for the week?
Definitely! Cook the green beans and almonds, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet for best texture. Adding almonds just before serving keeps them crunchy throughout the week.
