Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) slivered almonds
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) lemon zest
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry.
  2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant (don't let it burn!).
  4. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through.
  5. Stir in the toasted almonds. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.