Thanksgiving is such a special time, isn’t it? It’s all about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and, of course, enjoying an amazing feast. But let’s be honest, the main dish is only part of the celebration! That’s where *side dishes* shine, bringing color, flavor, and texture to the table. This green bean and almond dish is a delicious *side dish for Thanksgiving* that truly complements the turkey or ham. I can still remember my grandma whipping up her green beans every year, the garlic sizzling in the pan, the aroma filling the kitchen, and everyone eagerly waiting to dig in. Trust me, this dish is not just easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser! It’s fresh, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned—a must-have to elevate your Thanksgiving spread!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful side dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup of sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to get creative! If you’re not a big fan of almonds, you can easily substitute them with walnuts for a different twist. Using fresh green beans really makes a difference in taste, so I highly recommend it, but frozen ones work in a pinch if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious side dish! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a gorgeous green bean and almond dish ready in no time.
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step to ensure everything bakes evenly.
- While that’s heating up, wash and trim your green beans. Just snap off the ends—it’s super satisfying!
- Next, grab a pan and heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sauté the garlic but not so hot that it burns.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Ah, that aroma is heavenly, right?
- Now, toss in the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them tender but still with a nice crunch!
- Then, add the sliced almonds and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together so those flavors mix beautifully.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake for 15 minutes. This will give the almonds a lovely golden color and the green beans a bit more tenderness.
- Once done, serve it warm and get ready for the compliments!
And just like that, you’ve got a fantastic side dish that’s sure to impress! Isn’t cooking fun?
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodies in this delightful green bean and almond dish! Here’s a little breakdown of what you can expect per serving. Keep in mind, this data is an estimate based on the ingredients listed, but it gives you a good idea of the deliciousness you’re indulging in:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients! The green beans are a great source of fiber, and the almonds add a nice boost of protein and healthy fats. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a side dish without any guilt during your Thanksgiving feast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: You’ll have this beautiful dish ready in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
- Simple steps: With just a few easy actions, even beginner cooks can whip up this delightful side dish without feeling overwhelmed.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of fresh green beans and crunchy almonds, paired with savory garlic, brings a wonderful depth of taste that everyone will love.
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with nutrients, this dish adds a nutritious boost to your meal while keeping things light and flavorful.
- Versatile: It complements turkey, ham, or any main dish beautifully, making it a versatile *side dish for Thanksgiving* that fits right in.
- Great texture: The contrast between the tender green beans and crunchy almonds keeps every bite interesting and satisfying.
- Family favorite: Trust me, this recipe has a way of becoming a beloved staple at your Thanksgiving table, just like it has in my family!
Tips for Success
To make sure your green bean and almond dish turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my top tips! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference:
- Fresh is Best: Always opt for fresh green beans if you can. They’ll taste so much better than the frozen ones, but if you do use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them completely for the best texture.
- Cooking Time: If you prefer your green beans with a bit more crunch, feel free to reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes. Keep an eye on them while they bake; you want that perfect balance of tender yet crisp!
- Garlic Lovers Unite: If you’re a garlic fan like me, you can add an extra clove or two for a more robust flavor. Just be careful not to let it burn when sautéing, as that can turn the dish bitter.
- Almond Alternatives: If almonds aren’t your thing, walnuts or even pecans can work beautifully as substitutes. Just make sure to toast them lightly to enhance their flavor!
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Seasoning your dish while cooking helps build layers of flavor, so taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
- Prep Ahead: You can wash and trim the green beans a day ahead to save time on Thanksgiving day. Just store them in a sealed bag in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making a green bean dish that everyone will rave about. Enjoy the cooking process and have fun with it!
Variations
One of the best parts about this green bean and almond dish is how easy it is to customize! You can make it your own with just a few simple tweaks. Here are some fun variations that can still shine as a fantastic *side dish for Thanksgiving*:
- Nutty Alternatives: If almonds aren’t your favorite, swap them out for walnuts or pecans! They bring a different flavor and texture that can be just as delightful. Toast them lightly before adding for an extra nutty aroma.
- Herb Infusion: Want to elevate the flavor? Try adding some fresh herbs! A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary can add a lovely aromatic touch. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep their fresh taste.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. It’ll give the dish a warm, spicy zing that pairs beautifully with the green beans.
- Cheesy Goodness: If you’re feeling indulgent, add some grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking. It’ll melt into the dish and create a rich, savory layer that’s simply irresistible!
- Sweet and Savory: For a unique twist, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of dried cranberries at the end. The sweetness complements the savory garlic and almonds perfectly!
- Asian-Inspired: Swap the olive oil for sesame oil, and toss in some soy sauce and sesame seeds for an Asian flair. This transforms the dish into a whole new experience while keeping it just as tasty!
These variations not only keep things exciting but also ensure that this green bean and almond dish can cater to all tastes at your Thanksgiving table. So go ahead, mix it up and find your favorite version!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this scrumptious green bean and almond dish ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve it up! This delightful side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many traditional Thanksgiving mains. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more memorable:
- Turkey: Of course, you can’t go wrong with the classic turkey! The savory flavors of the roasted turkey complement the fresh crunch of the green beans, creating a perfect harmony on your plate.
- Ham: Whether it’s glazed or smoked, ham brings a sweet and salty profile that pairs exceptionally well with the garlicky goodness of the green beans. It’s a match made in Thanksgiving heaven!
- Stuffing: The rich, hearty flavors of stuffing are enhanced by the lighter, fresher notes of the green beans. You’ll love the way they balance each other out!
- Mashed Potatoes: Add a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes to your plate, and you’ve got a comforting combination. The green beans provide a nice crunch to contrast the smoothness of the potatoes.
- Roasted Chicken: If turkey isn’t your thing, roasted chicken is another fantastic option. The juicy, flavorful chicken goes hand in hand with the vibrant green beans!
- Vegetarian Main Dishes: If you’re serving a vegetarian spread, this green bean dish pairs wonderfully with mushroom risotto or a hearty lentil loaf. It adds a fresh element to a deliciously rich meal.
So go ahead, mix and match your favorites! This green bean and almond dish not only brings color to your table but also elevates the entire Thanksgiving experience. Your guests will be raving about the flavors, and who knows, it might just become a new tradition in your family!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve enjoyed this delicious green bean and almond dish, let’s talk about how to store those pesky leftovers! Trust me, you’ll want to keep every last bite. Here’s how to do it right:
- Storing Leftovers: Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This will help keep them fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from mingling in the fridge.
- Refrigeration: You can store the green beans in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them gently to maintain their lovely texture!
- Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the green beans. However, I recommend eating them fresh for the best flavor. If you choose to freeze, make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they should last up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly when thawed.
When it comes to reheating, you want to be careful not to overdo it. Here’s how I like to bring them back to life:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the green beans on a baking sheet. Cover with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps keep the almonds crunchy!
- Stovetop Method: If you prefer, you can also reheat them on the stovetop. Just add a splash of olive oil or a tiny bit of water to a skillet over medium heat, toss in the green beans, and sauté for a few minutes until heated through.
- Microwave Method: In a hurry? Pop them in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes, but be sure to cover them with a microwave-safe lid or plate to keep them from drying out. Just remember, this method may not keep the texture as lovely as the other two!
With these storage and reheating tips, your green beans will taste just as good as when they were fresh out of the oven! Enjoy those leftovers and make sure to savor every bite!
Imprimer
Side Dish for Thanksgiving: 7 Ways to Wow Your Guests
- Temps Total: 35 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A tasty side dish perfect for your Thanksgiving meal.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups of green beans
- 1 cup of sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and trim the green beans.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add green beans and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add sliced almonds and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Fresh green beans work best.
- You can substitute almonds with walnuts if desired.
- Adjust cooking time for desired crunchiness of green beans.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Side Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 50mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 9g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 15g
- La fibre: 5g
- La protéine: 4g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 0mg
Mots-clés: side dish for thanksgiving
