Classic Green Bean Almondine (diabetic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Classic Green Bean Almondine
Classic Green Bean Almondine is a timeless dish that brings together the crispness of green beans and the nutty crunch of almonds. This diabetic-friendly version maintains the essence of the original while making thoughtful adjustments to cater to those watching their sugar intake. By using fresh green beans and toasting the almonds, we enhance the flavors without compromising health.
Historically, this dish hails from French cuisine, where 'almondine' refers to the use of almonds in a dish, often paired with green vegetables. The combination of green beans and almonds is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful contrast in textures. It’s a dish that can elevate any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without anyone noticing—just don’t tell the kids!
To prepare this dish, you’ll want to start with fresh green beans, as frozen varieties can sometimes lack the crunch we’re after. The key to achieving that perfect bite is blanching the beans before sautéing them with the almonds. This method not only preserves their vibrant color but also ensures they remain tender-crisp. And let’s not forget the garlic—because what’s a good dish without a little aromatic magic?
So, whether you’re serving this at a family gathering or just trying to impress your dinner guests, this Classic Green Bean Almondine will surely be a hit. It’s a dish that proves you can enjoy flavorful food while still being mindful of dietary needs. Just remember, if anyone asks for the secret ingredient, tell them it’s love—because that’s what really makes a meal special!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 0.5 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse 1 pound of fresh green beans under cold water and trim the ends. This step ensures that your beans are clean and ready for cooking.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Adding salt to the water can enhance the flavor of the beans, so don’t skip this step.
- Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be bright green and tender-crisp, so keep an eye on the clock.
- While the beans are blanching, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl filled with ice and cold water. This will stop the cooking process and help maintain the beans' vibrant color.
- After 4 minutes, quickly transfer the green beans to the ice bath using a slotted spoon. Let them sit for about 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute, which will help the almonds toast evenly.
- Add 0.5 cup of sliced almonds to the skillet and toast them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. You want them to be golden brown and fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.
- Once the almonds are toasted, add the minced garlic (2 cloves) to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
- Next, add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing them gently to combine with the almonds and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the green beans and season with 0.5 teaspoon of salt and 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper. The lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
- Toss everything together one last time to ensure the beans are well-coated with the seasonings. This step is crucial for flavor distribution.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the green bean almondine to a serving dish. Garnish with additional toasted almonds if desired for an extra crunch.
- Serve immediately while warm, as this dish is best enjoyed fresh. The combination of textures and flavors will surely impress your guests.
- Enjoy your diabetic-friendly Classic Green Bean Almondine as a delightful side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Remember, a little crunch goes a long way!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 150
- Carbs g: 8
- Protein g: 4
- Fat g: 12
- Sugar g: 2
