Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Green Beans: Start by thoroughly washing the fresh green beans under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues.Once cleaned, carefully trim both ends of each bean using a sharp chef’s knife—this removes the tough stem ends and any stringy parts that might affect the texture.Pat the green beans completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This drying step is crucial because excess moisture will cause the beans to steam rather than sauté, preventing that desirable crisp-tender texture.
- Heat the Oils in the Skillet: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm up for a minute or two. Add one tablespoon of sesame oil and one tablespoon of olive oil (or two tablespoons of sesame oil if preferred) to the pan. The combination of oils not only brings a subtle nutty aroma but also helps achieve an even sauté. Let the oils heat until they shimmer gently—this indicates they’re hot enough to start cooking but not smoking.
- Start Sautéing the Green Beans: Carefully add the prepared green beans to the hot skillet. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to toss the beans gently, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the oils. Sauté the green beans for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This initial cooking softens them slightly while beginning to develop a light sear on the surface, which adds depth of flavor and pleasant texture.
- Add Flavorful Aromatics and Seasonings: Once the beans have begun to soften, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add two teaspoons of minced garlic to the skillet, stirring quickly to prevent burning, as garlic cooks fast and can turn bitter if overcooked. Immediately season with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper, distributing evenly over the beans. Next, sprinkle in two teaspoons of brown sugar to introduce a gentle sweetness that beautifully balances the savory and nutty flavors.Mix everything thoroughly so the garlic, seasoning, and sugar coat each green bean.
- Incorporate the Almonds and Continue Cooking: Add one-third cup of sliced, shaved, or slivered almonds to the skillet. Almonds bring a delightful crunch and a mild nutty richness that elevates the dish’s texture profile. Stir well to combine and continue cooking the green beans over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes. During this time, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The green beans should become tender enough to pierce easily with a fork but still retain a slight crispness—avoid overcooking to maintain their vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- Final Touches and Serving Preparation: Once the green beans are perfectly cooked and the almonds are lightly toasted, remove the skillet from heat. Let the dish rest for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld and the beans to cool slightly for safer handling. Optionally, you can enhance the flavor by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese or drizzling a little balsamic glaze before serving. Transfer the sautéed green beans with garlic and almonds to a serving dish and enjoy immediately alongside your favorite protein or as a nutritious standalone side.
Notes
- Always dry green beans thoroughly before cooking to avoid steaming and ensure a crisp-tender texture.
- Use fresh almonds for the best crunch; toasted almonds enhance the nutty flavor even more.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and brown sugar to suit your personal taste preferences.
- For a vegan twist, skip any optional cheese toppings or use a plant-based alternative.
- This recipe is highly versatile—swap sesame oil for other nut oils like walnut or peanut for unique flavor variations.