Imagine transforming ordinary green beans into a mouthwatering side dish that will have your dinner guests begging for the recipe. This Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds and Mushrooms is not just a simple vegetable side, but a culinary adventure that combines crisp green beans, earthy mushrooms, and crunchy almonds in a perfectly seasoned symphony of flavors. Whether you're looking to impress your family or elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cool running water. Trim the tough ends off the beans by snapping or cutting them.
- Pat the green beans dry completely using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure proper sautéing and prevent excess moisture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to release their moisture and start to brown.
- Add green beans to the skillet, spreading them in a single layer. Allow them to cook without stirring for 2 minutes to develop some caramelization.
- Stir the green beans and mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the beans are crisp-tender and bright green.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds over the beans and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the almonds.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, tossing to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Transfer the sautéed green beans to a serving platter, ensuring the almonds and mushrooms are distributed throughout.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional toasted almonds if desired.
Tips
- Dry is the key! Make sure your green beans are completely dry before sautéing to achieve that perfect crisp-tender texture and prevent steaming.
- Use a large, wide skillet to ensure your beans can spread in a single layer. This allows for better caramelization and even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is too small, cook the beans in batches to maintain high heat and prevent soggy vegetables.
- Toast the almonds carefully - watch them closely as they can burn quickly. They should be a light golden brown for the best flavor and crunch.
- Fresh garlic makes a big difference. If possible, use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced to get the most vibrant flavor.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving.
- Serve immediately after cooking to maintain the beans' bright green color and crisp texture. These green beans are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the pan!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
