Welcome to Roots Food Group, where we love to share recipes that bring together health, taste, and simplicity. Today, we're diving into a delightful side dish that showcases a classic vegetable in a vibrant way: Green Beans with Almonds and Thyme. This dish not only brings a splash of color to your plate but also packs a punch of flavor, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
The Story Behind the Dish
Green beans are a staple in many cuisines worldwide due to their versatility and availability. Combining them with almonds and thyme is a practice rooted in French and Mediterranean cuisines. The nuts add a crunch and richness to the dish, while the thyme provides an herbaceous backdrop that enhances the beans' natural flavors.
Benefits
This dish is not only pleasing to the palate but also to the body. Green beans are a great source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and are known for their ability to support heart health and bone strength. Almonds add a healthy dose of vitamin E, magnesium, and protein, making this dish a powerhouse of nutrients.
Cultural Meaning
In culinary terms, green beans with almonds and thyme represent a harmony of flavors that transcend cultural boundaries, making it a dish that can be adapted and enjoyed worldwide. It celebrates the garden's bounty, where simplicity meets sophistication, creating a nourishing and comforting dish.
The Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 lb green beans, trimmed
• 3 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp. garlic salt
• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme
• 1⁄4 cup slivered almonds, lightly toasted
Directions
Step 1: Cook the green beans in a large pot of boiling salted water (11⁄2 tsp. of salt for every quart of water) until just crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Shock the green beans in ice water.
Step 3: Drain the beans and transfer them to a large bowl of ice water, cooling them completely. (The ice water will make the beans vibrant green.)
Step 4: Drain the beans well. You can make the beans a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Steam the beans for 5 minutes and proceed directly to the skillet.
Step 6: Sauté beans with butter and thyme:
Step 7: Melt the butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Whisk in half of the fresh thyme (1 Tbsp.), the Dijon mustard, and the garlic salt into the butter.
In conclusion, Green Beans with Almonds and Thyme is more than just a side dish; it's a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into a memorable meal. Perfect for a quiet dinner at home or as part of a festive holiday spread, this recipe brings a touch of elegance and lots of flavors to any table.
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