Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when families gather around the table, sharing stories, laughter, and the most delicious food. And let’s be real, no Thanksgiving feast feels complete without a standout Thanksgiving side. This green bean and almond dish is a classic that perfectly complements your turkey, adding a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your plate. I love how simple yet elegant it is, making it a must-have on my holiday table every year. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll have plenty of room for all those other scrumptious dishes! Trust me, your guests will be raving about it before they even take a bite of dessert!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Side
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your green beans roast evenly and get that lovely crispy texture we’re after. Trust me, starting with a hot oven makes all the difference in the world!
Mix Ingredients
Now, grab a large bowl and toss in those beautiful green beans! Drizzle in the olive oil, add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until the green beans are evenly coated. It’s like giving them a little spa treatment! Make sure every bean gets a touch of that garlicky goodness.
Prepare for Baking
Next up, it’s time to spread that tasty mixture on a baking sheet. Use a large, rimmed one if you have it, and make sure to distribute the beans in a single layer. This is super important because it helps them roast evenly. We don’t want any soggy beans in this dish, right?
Add Toppings
Now comes the fun part—let’s add the sliced almonds on top! Just sprinkle them over the green beans, and they’ll toast up beautifully in the oven. Not only do they add a lovely crunch, but they also bring a nutty flavor that really elevates this dish. Yum!
Bake
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let it work its magic for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re done when the green beans are tender and the almonds are golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s chat about how to make this Thanksgiving side absolutely perfect! I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that I think you’ll find really helpful.
- Know Your Oven: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on those green beans as they bake. If yours runs hot, they might be done a bit sooner, while a cooler oven might need an extra minute or two. Just trust your instincts!
- Freshness Matters: Always opt for fresh green beans when you can. They’ll have that lovely crunch and vibrant flavor that frozen beans just can’t match. If you do use frozen, adjust the cooking time but keep in mind they might not crisp up as well.
- Lemon Zing: For an extra pop of flavor, squeeze a little lemon juice over the green beans just before serving. It brightens everything up and adds a refreshing twist that your guests will love!
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to mix it up! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick, or try some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile. Get creative!
- Let Them Rest: After you take them out of the oven, let the green beans sit for a few minutes before serving. This way, they’ll hold onto their warmth and flavor better!
With these tips, you’ll have a Thanksgiving side that not only looks gorgeous but tastes incredible too. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! This Thanksgiving side is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving, based on standard ingredients:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. But overall, you’re looking at a healthy and vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving table that everyone can enjoy guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen green beans?
Absolutely! If you have frozen green beans on hand, you can definitely use them. Just keep in mind that they might not get as crispy as fresh ones. I recommend thawing them first and patting them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Then, follow the same steps in the recipe, but keep an eye on the baking time as they may cook a little faster. You want them tender but still vibrant!
What can I substitute for almonds?
If almonds aren’t your thing or if you need a nut-free option, no worries! You can easily swap them out for other nuts like walnuts or pecans, which will add a delightful crunch as well. If you prefer to keep it nut-free, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that same lovely texture. They’ll still give your dish that extra oomph!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers? Yes, please! To keep your green bean and almond dish fresh, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay good for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently in the oven or microwave. You might want to add a splash of olive oil to help revive that lovely texture!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this Thanksgiving side in no time! Perfect for those busy holiday kitchens.
- Flavorful Crunch: The combination of tender green beans and toasted almonds creates a delightful texture that complements your turkey beautifully. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant green of the beans paired with the golden almonds makes this dish a showstopper on your Thanksgiving table. It’s not just food; it’s art!
- Healthier Option: Packed with nutrients, this side is a great way to balance out heavier dishes on your holiday spread while still being absolutely delicious.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the flavors with spices or add a squeeze of lemon juice to elevate the taste even more. Make it your own!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds. It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious green bean and almond Thanksgiving side ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it! This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of traditional holiday favorites. Here are some of my top suggestions:
- Classic Roast Turkey: You really can’t go wrong with serving this side alongside a beautifully roasted turkey. The crunchy almonds and tender green beans create a wonderful contrast to the savory, juicy turkey.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the earthy flavors of the green beans perfectly. Plus, the vibrant colors will make your Thanksgiving plate pop!
- Stuffing: Whether you prefer a classic bread stuffing or a wild rice blend, this Thanksgiving side adds a fresh element that balances the richness of stuffing.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a staple on any Thanksgiving table. Pairing them with these green beans gives you a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Serve with some sweet, honey-glazed carrots for an extra pop of color and sweetness. They harmonize beautifully with the green beans!
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add another veggie to the mix? Roasted Brussels sprouts with a bit of balsamic glaze alongside your green beans will make for a stunning veggie medley!
With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your guests and create a memorable Thanksgiving spread. Enjoy the deliciousness and the joy of the season!
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Thanksgiving Side: 5 Ways to Wow Your Guests
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Thanksgiving side dish that complements any turkey meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix green beans, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
- Add sliced almonds on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until beans are tender and almonds are golden.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add lemon juice before serving.
- Adjust cooking time based on your oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thanksgiving side
