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–+ servings
lemon green beans
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5 from 2 votes

Lemon Green Beans

These bright and zesty lemon green beans take less than 20 minutes! They are the perfect side dish for any occasion. Prep-ahead friendly, and so refreshing and bright.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 142kcal
Author: Tania

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds French green beans, ends trimmed aka "haricot verts"
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice to taste
  • 1 teaspoon honey or to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon zest
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds plus more to taste

For the ice bath

  • Ice

Instructions

  • Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust ingredients to taste, if needed. Set aside.
  • Blanch the green beans: In a pot large enough to fit the green beans, bring water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook on a low boil for 4 to 5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp and crunchy. Test a few until they cooked to your liking. Then, immediately transfer to an ice bath (a bowl with cold water and ice). Tip: If you don't have ice, run through tap cold water for a few seconds until cold.
  • Toast the almonds: On a skillet over medium high heat, toast the sliced almonds for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant, tossing.
  • Pat dry the beans thoroughly and transfer to a serving bowl. Toss with the prepared lemon dressing. Then, top with the toasted almonds and fresh lemon zest. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Pick the freshest green beans that are vibrant green and do not have blemishes.
  • Do not use frozen or canned green beans.
  • Ice bath: This is the secret for texture and color (as directed in the recipe).
    If you don't have ice, run through tap cold water for a few seconds until cold.
  • Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
 
Substitutions and variations:
  • French green beans: Regular ones work too.
  • Nuts: Pecans or walnuts.
  • Add-ins: Goat or feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, caramelized onions.
 
Disclaimer: Nutritional values (per serving) are approximates only.

Nutrition

Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 104mg | Potassium: 273mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 783IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 1mg