Creamy Almond Green Beans

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh green beans 500g (1.1 lb) fresh green beans
• 100g (3.5 oz) almonds, plus extra for garnish 100g (3.5 oz) almonds, plus extra for garnish
• 100ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream 100ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a dry skillet, toast the almonds over medium heat until golden brown. Remove from heat and let them cool.
3. 3.
   In a blender or food processor, grind the toasted almonds until finely chopped.
4. 4.
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. 5.
   Stir in the ground almonds and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. 6.
   Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Add the blanched green beans to the saucepan and toss gently until they are coated with the creamy almond sauce.
9. 9.
   Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through.
10. 10.
    Transfer the Creamy Almond Green Beans to a serving dish and garnish with additional toasted almonds.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to toast the almonds until they are golden brown to enhance their flavor. Be careful not to burn them as it can result in a bitter taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy twist.
• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra savory touch.
• Serve the Creamy Almond Green Beans as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, either cold or reheated.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Almond Green Beans hot as a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as a vegetarian option alongside a hearty grain dish.

Presentation advice

Arrange the green beans neatly on a serving platter and drizzle the creamy almond sauce over them. Sprinkle the dish with additional toasted almonds for an attractive garnish. Serve with a sprig of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a pop of color.