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A platter of vibrant Thanksgiving green beans in 20 minutes, topped with toasted almonds and crispy shallots.

Thanksgiving Green Beans in 20 Minutes (Weeknight Win)

This recipe offers a quick and flavorful green bean side dish, perfect for Thanksgiving or any weeknight meal. It combines tender-crisp green beans with a savory almond and shallot topping, ready in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 side servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 161

Ingredients
  

For the Almond Topping
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter sliced into several pieces
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 1/4 cup shallot thinly sliced (about 1 small)
For the Green Beans
  • 1 pound haricots verts or slender green beans trimmed
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice to taste
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Heatproof spatula or wooden spoon
  • Bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once it’s completely melted, add the almonds. Cook, stirring constantly, until the butter has browned and the almonds are beginning to brown, about 7 to 8 minutes.
  2. Add the shallot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Stir in the lemon juice and 1 tablespoon water. Cook until the liquid thickens enough that your spatula leaves an open trail on the pan, about 1 more minute.
  3. Scoop the almond mixture into a bowl and set aside. Return the empty skillet to the stovetop, and add the green beans, ½ cup water, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the beans are nearly tender, about 9 to 10 minutes.
  4. Remove the lid and cook over medium-high heat until the liquid evaporates, about 2 to 4 minutes.
  5. Off the heat, add the reserved almond mixture to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 161kcalCarbohydrates: 12.3gProtein: 4.8gFat: 11.8gSaturated Fat: 4.1gCholesterol: 15.3mgSodium: 299.9mgFiber: 4.8gSugar: 5.1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Leftover green beans will keep in the fridge, covered, for about 4 days.

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