Green Beans Recipe
Make Green Beans Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Green Beans
Finishing Sauce
Method
Green Beans
- 1
Trim and Prepare
Rinse the green beans under cold water. Trim the stem ends (and tails, if you prefer) so beans are uniform length. Pat dry.
- 2
Bring Pot of Water to Boil
Fill a large pot with about 3 quarts (or enough to fully submerge the beans) of water and bring to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt to the water.
- 3
Blanch
Add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water and cook until bright green and just tender-crisp, 2 to 3 minutes depending on thickness. Stir once or twice to prevent sticking.
- 4
Shock
While beans blanch, prepare a large bowl with 1 cup of ice cubes and cold water. Immediately transfer the blanched beans with a slotted spoon or wire skimmer into the ice bath to stop cooking. Cool for 2 minutes, then drain thoroughly and pat dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels.
Finishing Sauce
- 5
Toast Almonds (if using)
In a small dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate to stop cooking.
- 6
Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot and cook, stirring, until softened and fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. Do not let the garlic brown.
- 7
Finish Beans in Skillet
Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss to coat with the butter and aromatics. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until beans are heated through and develop slight blistering or color in spots. If the pan seems dry, add up to 1 more teaspoon of olive oil or 1 tablespoon of water.
- 8
Season and Brighten
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, toasted almonds (if using), 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Taste and adjust seasoning—add a pinch more salt or an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.
- 9
Serve
Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and garnish with a few additional toasted almonds or a small pat of butter if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
