Green Beans with Almond Butter

Name: Green Beans with Almond Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed; 1/3 cup almond butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Sliced almonds, for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Favorites

I always find joy in simple recipes, and this Green Beans with Almond Butter dish has become a go-to in my kitchen. It’s a quick, nutritious side that packs a delightful punch of flavor. The creamy almond butter, with its nutty richness, transforms ordinary green beans into something extraordinary. Whether I’m serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it on a casual weeknight, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:05:35.545Z

When I first experimented with almond butter in savory dishes, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. However, this combination of green beans and almond butter has been a delightful surprise. The creaminess of the almond butter complements the crisp, fresh taste of the green beans beautifully, adding an unexpected depth of flavor that elevates the dish.

I’ve also learned that the key to perfecting this recipe lies in how you cook the green beans. Blanching them ensures they stay vibrant and crunchy, while tossing them in almond butter just before serving makes every bite irresistible. It's a technique I now use in many of my vegetable dishes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy days
The nutty almond butter adds a unique twist to vegetables
Healthier alternative to traditional sauces and dressings

Mastering the Blanching Technique

Blanching the green beans is a crucial step that enhances their color, texture, and flavor. When you add them to boiling salted water, aim for a vibrant, bright green appearance. After about three minutes, the beans should be tender-crisp. It's vital to have an ice bath ready; this method stops the cooking process and preserves that lovely crunch. If you skip this step, your green beans might end up soft and mushy, losing their appealing bite.

To ensure even blanching, spread the green beans in a single layer when placing them into the boiling water. You can also test them for doneness by tasting a piece—a perfectly blanched bean should be bright green and slightly firm. If you prefer a softer bean, you can add another minute to the blanching time, but be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll lose that satisfying texture.

The Role of Almond Butter

Almond butter not only brings a unique nutty flavor to the dish but also adds creaminess that beautifully coats the green beans. It’s rich in healthy fats and protein, making this side more nutritious than traditional butter or cream sauces. If you want to adjust the flavor profile, consider swapping in a different nut butter, like cashew or sunflower seed butter, but keep in mind that each will impart its own distinct taste.

For the best results, use a natural almond butter without added sugars or oils. This ensures that your almond butter mixture stays smooth and doesn't separate. If your almond butter is particularly thick, a splash more olive oil can help thin it out for easier mixing and coating. The mixture should be glossy and cohesive, enveloping the green beans in a luscious layer.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving this dish warm allows the almond butter to remain creamy, providing a delightful texture contrast with the crisp green beans. For a colorful presentation, serve it on a white platter and sprinkle the sliced almonds generously; this not only adds visual appeal but also a satisfying crunch. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a healthy meal, or serve it alongside quinoa for a vegetarian option.

If you have leftovers, store the green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or briefly in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil to revive their texture. However, be cautious not to overheat, as this can lead to mushiness. To keep your dish fresh for meal prep, consider preparing the almond butter mixture in advance but combine it with the beans right before serving.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Green Beans with Almond Butter

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
1/3 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced almonds, for garnish

Enjoy your delicious green beans with almond butter!

Instructions

Blanch the Green Beans

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the trimmed green beans. Blanch for about 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Prepare Almond Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the almond butter, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine and Serve

Toss the blanched green beans with the almond butter mixture until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sliced almonds before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your nutritious and flavorful side dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or experiment with different nut butters for a variety of flavors.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for a pop of color and flavor. Simply blanch them alongside the green beans until they reach the same tender-crisp stage. Incorporating a variety of veggies enhances nutritional value and brings complexity to each bite, making it a more vibrant and satisfying dish.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the almond butter mixture, giving it a subtle kick. Alternatively, a dash of soy sauce or coconut aminos can introduce umami notes that balance the nuttiness of the almond butter beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture with green beans is all about timing. Overcooking them can lead to a sad, limp vegetable that lacks the crunch we crave. If using thicker beans, you may need to increase the blanching time slightly. Always keep an eye on them, especially the first time making the recipe, to get a feel for how they cook based on your stovetop and pot size.

When mixing the almond butter with the green beans, use a gentle tossing motion. This way, you ensure that each bean gets an even coating without breaking them apart. If you notice separation in the almond butter while mixing, a quick stir will usually bring it back together. Using a rubber spatula can help scrape every bit from the bowl, ensuring none of the delicious sauce goes to waste.

Nutritional Benefits

Green beans are not just a crunchy delight; they're packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with dietary fiber, making them a standout choice for any meal. Pairing them with almond butter not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile, providing healthy fats and protein to help keep you full longer. This dish is an excellent option for vegetarians looking for a filling side without sacrificing taste.

If you’re conscious of calorie intake or looking for lighter options, feel free to reduce the amount of almond butter or use a lower-fat nut butter. You can also swap out the olive oil for a lighter option, like apple cider vinegar, for an even healthier alternative while still enjoying the bright flavors of lemon and salt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used. Just make sure to cook them according to package instructions.

→ Is almond butter necessary for this recipe?

While almond butter adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with peanut butter or tahini if preferred.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

You can blanch the green beans in advance and mix them with almond butter right before serving for the best texture.