The Perfect Addition: Crispy Roasted Garlic Green Beans with Toasted Almonds
A complete Beef Bourguignon dinner is a masterpiece of rich, deep flavors. To cut through that richness and add a vibrant, textural contrast, I propose a side of Crispy Roasted Garlic Green Beans with Toasted Almonds. This dish brings a necessary crisp-tender bite, a bright color to the plate, and a nutty, garlicky flavor that complements without competing.
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Introduction
This recipe transforms simple green beans into an elegant, flavorful side dish. The high-heat roasting caramelizes the beans’ edges, while minced garlic and shallot infuse them with savory depth. The finish of toasted almonds and a hint of lemon zest adds a sophisticated crunch and brightness, making it the perfect counterpoint to the hearty, wine-braised beef and creamy potatoes.
History & Benefits
Green beans have been cultivated for centuries across the globe. This preparation, using roasting—a dry-heat method—is a modern take that retains more nutrients than boiling. Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins C, K, and A, fiber, and folate. Almonds add healthy fats, vitamin E, and protein. Together, they create a side that is not only delicious but also adds nutritional balance to a decadent meal.
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)
· Calories: ~120
· Fat: 8g (Healthy fats from olive oil & almonds)
· Carbohydrates: 10g
· Fiber: 4g
· Protein: 4g
· Rich in: Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Folate.
Ingredients
· 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, ends trimmed
· 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
· 4 large cloves garlic, minced
· 1 small shallot, finely minced
· ½ teaspoon sea salt
· ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
· ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
· ⅓ cup (40g) sliced almonds
· 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
· 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Equipment
· Large rimmed baking sheet
· Mixing bowl
· Small skillet
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Method & Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Blanch (Optional but Recommended)
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare a bowl of ice water.
3. Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook for 2 minutes (blanching).
4. Immediately drain and plunge the beans into the ice water to stop cooking. This step preserves their vibrant green color and ensures a crisp-tender finish after roasting. Drain again and pat very dry with a kitchen towel.
Step 2: Season and Combine
1. On your baking sheet, toss the dried green beans with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, minced shallot, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure the beans are in a single, even layer for optimal crisping.
Step 3: Roast
1. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the beans are tender-crisp and slightly charred in spots.
Step 4: Toast the Almonds
1. While the beans roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until they are fragrant and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning. Immediately remove from the heat.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
1. Transfer the roasted green beans to a serving platter.
2. Drizzle with the toasted almonds and their oil from the skillet.
3. Sprinkle the lemon zest and chopped parsley over the top.
4. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
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Plating Formation & Conclusion
To build the perfect plate: Place a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes slightly off-center. Lean a ladleful of rich Beef Bourguignon, with its tender beef, carrots, and pearl onions, against the potatoes. Arrange a bundle of the Crispy Roasted Garlic Green Beans across the center, allowing their vibrant green to be the visual highlight. The buttery bread can be placed on the side or underneath to soak up the glorious sauce.
Conclusion: This trio of Beef Bourguignon, mashed potatoes, and crusty bread is the epitome of comfort. The addition of these green beans is not just another side; it’s a necessary element of balance. It introduces a fresh, crisp texture, a pop of color, and a clean, nutty flavor that elevates the entire meal from simply hearty to harmoniously gourmet. It’s the note of freshness that makes you appreciate the deep flavors of the stew even more.
For the Lovers of Flavor:
· Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of crispy, chopped bacon before serving.
· Cheese Lovers: Finish with a dusting of finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese as soon as the beans come out of the oven.
· Umami Lovers: Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce or tamari to the olive oil mixture before tossing with the beans.
Enjoy this complete, balanced, and utterly satisfying culinary experience