7 Green Bean, Garlic and Almond Christmas Dinner Sides Everyone Loves

When it comes to Christmas dinner, I always find myself seeking sides that bring both flavor and elegance to the table. Green beans, garlic, and almonds have a unique ability to elevate any meal. Over the years, I’ve discovered seven delightful variations that consistently impress guests. Each recipe offers something different, and I can’t wait to share these culinary gems with you. Let’s explore these sides that might just become holiday favorites in your household.

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Sautéed Green Beans With Garlic and Almonds

saut ed green beans recipe

Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic and Almonds is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any festive meal, especially during Christmas dinner. This dish balances the freshness of crisp green beans with the rich flavor of sautéed garlic and nutty almonds, making it not only a delightful addition to your holiday table but also a healthy one.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Sliced almonds ½ cup
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Rinse the green beans under cold water. Trim the ends of the beans by snapping off the tough stem end. You can cut them to your desired length if you prefer shorter pieces.
  2. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the green beans and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
  3. Ice Bath: Prepare a bowl of ice water. Once the green beans are blanched, immediately transfer them to the ice bath using a slotted spoon to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes, then drain and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and just lightly golden, being careful not to let it burn.
  5. Add the Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Toss to coat the beans in the oil and garlic.
  6. Season: Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the green beans and continue to sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and are tender to your liking.
  7. Add the Almonds: Stir in the sliced almonds and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to toast lightly and infuse their nutty flavor into the dish.
  8. Finish with Lemon Juice: Once the green beans are done, remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze the lemon juice over the green beans and give everything a final toss to combine.
  9. Serve: Transfer the sautéed green beans with garlic and almonds to a serving dish and serve warm alongside your Christmas dinner. Enjoy!
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Garlic Roasted Green Beans With Slivered Almonds

garlic roasted green beans

Garlic Roasted Green Beans with Slivered Almonds is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any holiday gathering, including Christmas dinner. With the rich flavors of roasted garlic and the crunch of slivered almonds, this dish elevates simple green beans to a new level, complementing your festive feast beautifully.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic cloves, minced 4 cloves
Slivered almonds ½ cup
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Parmesan cheese (optional) ¼ cup, grated
Lemon wedges (for serving) N/A

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that lovely roasted flavor.
  2. Prepare the Green Beans: Rinse the fresh green beans under cold water. Trim the ends by snapping off the tough stem ends. Make sure to discard any blemished or limp beans.
  3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the trimmed green beans, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the beans are evenly coated.
  4. Spread on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Spread the green bean mixture in a single layer on the sheet. Ensure there is space between the beans for even roasting.
  5. Roast in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. The beans should be tender yet crisp and slightly caramelized.
  6. Add Almonds: When the green beans are almost done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the slivered almonds over the beans and return the sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will toast the almonds and enhance their flavor.
  7. Optional – Add Parmesan: If you wish to add a cheesy touch, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans right after they come out of the oven. Toss gently to combine while the cheese melts slightly with the residual heat.
  8. Serve: Transfer the roasted green beans and almonds to a serving dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for an added zing and serve immediately alongside your favorite holiday main dishes.

Enjoy your Garlic Roasted Green Beans with Slivered Almonds as a vibrant side at your Christmas dinner!

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Green Bean Almondine With a Lemon Zest

elegant lemon green beans

Green Bean Almondine with a Lemon Zest is an elegant and flavorful side dish that showcases the natural beauty of green beans enhanced with the crunch of almonds and the bright notes of lemon. This delightful combination is perfect for your Christmas dinner, adding a touch of sophistication and freshness to your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Unsalted butter 3 tablespoons
Slivered almonds ½ cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Lemon zest 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by rinsing the fresh green beans under cold water. Trim the ends by snapping off the tough stem ends. If you prefer, you can also cut them into smaller pieces for a different presentation.
  2. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Once done, drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help retain their vibrant color.
  3. Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast them for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove the almonds from the skillet and set them aside.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Toss the beans in the butter and garlic mixture to coat them evenly. Season with salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine.
  6. Add Toasted Almonds: Return the toasted almonds to the skillet and mix them with the green beans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once everything is heated through, transfer the green bean almondine to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. Serve immediately as a delightful addition to your Christmas dinner spread.
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Creamy Green Bean Casserole With Garlic and Almonds

creamy green bean casserole

Creamy Green Bean Casserole With Garlic and Almonds is a rich and flavorful dish that adds a comforting touch to your Christmas dinner. This casserole features fresh green beans layered in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crunchy almonds and a crispy fried onion layer, making it a satisfying side that everyone will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk ½ cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Slivered almonds ½ cup
Fried onions 1 cup
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Olive oil or butter 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by rinsing the fresh green beans under cold water. Trim the ends by snapping off the tough stem ends. If desired, cut them into smaller pieces for easier serving.
  2. Blanch the Green Beans: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the trimmed green beans. Blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Once done, drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. This helps retain their color and crispness.
  3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to overcook the garlic as it can become bitter.
  5. Create the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sautéed garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
  6. Combine with Green Beans: Add the blanched green beans to the creamy sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat the beans evenly with the sauce.
  7. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the green bean and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly in the dish.
  8. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the slivered almonds and fried onions evenly over the top of the green bean mixture for a crunchy topping.
  9. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  10. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delicious side dish that complements your holiday meal. Enjoy!
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Stir-Fried Green Beans With Toasted Almonds and Garlic

stir fried green beans recipe

Stir-Fried Green Beans With Toasted Almonds and Garlic is a delightful and vibrant side dish that brings crisp-tender green beans and nutty almonds together with aromatic garlic. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a festive table, adding both color and flavor to your Christmas dinner while offering a healthier alternative to richer sides.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Slivered almonds ¼ cup
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Begin by rinsing the fresh green beans under cold water. Trim the ends of the beans by snapping or cutting off the tough stem ends. If you prefer, you can cut the beans into smaller pieces (about 2 inches long) for a more manageable size.
  2. Toast the Almonds: In a large skillet or wok, set over medium heat, add the slivered almonds. Toast them by stirring frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn. Once toasted, remove the almonds from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Take care not to brown the garlic, as this can impart a bitter flavor.
  4. Stir-Fry the Green Beans: Add the prepared green beans to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Sauté the green beans for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
  5. Season the Dish: Once the green beans are cooked to your liking, add the soy sauce, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to ensure all the beans are evenly coated in the sauce. If using, drizzle in the lemon juice for a touch of brightness and acidity.
  6. Finish with Almonds: Remove the skillet from heat and add the toasted almonds back in. Toss everything together to combine, allowing the almonds to mix evenly with the green beans.
  7. Serve: Transfer the stir-fried green beans with toasted almonds and garlic to a serving dish and enjoy them warm as a delicious and festive side for your Christmas dinner.
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Parmesan-Crusted Green Beans With Almonds

crispy parmesan green beans

Parmesan-Crusted Green Beans With Almonds is a delightful twist on a classic vegetable side dish. The green beans are blanched to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture, then coated with a crispy Parmesan and almond topping that adds a savory and nutty flavor. This dish not only elevates the humble green bean but also creates an elegant presentation that is perfect for your Christmas dinner spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup
Slivered almonds ¼ cup
Bread crumbs ½ cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic powder ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Lemon zest 1 teaspoon (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by rinsing the fresh green beans under cold water and trimming off the tough stem ends. Prepare a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. After blanching, drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes, then drain again and pat dry.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Begin preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will allow the topping to crisp up nicely while the green beans cook.
  3. Prepare the Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, slivered almonds, bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional lemon zest. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix everything until well combined. It should resemble a coarse mixture that will stick together.
  4. Arrange the Green Beans: Lay the blanched green beans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
  5. Top the Green Beans: Evenly distribute the Parmesan and almond mixture over the green beans, pressing it down slightly to ensure it adheres. Make sure all the green beans are covered for optimal flavor and crunch.
  6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as ovens can vary.
  7. Serve: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Parmesan-crusted green beans cool for a few minutes. Transfer them to a serving platter and enjoy this delightful dish warm alongside your Christmas dinner!
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Holiday Green Bean Salad With Garlic Vinaigrette and Almonds

vibrant holiday green bean salad

Holiday Green Bean Salad With Garlic Vinaigrette and Almonds is a fresh and vibrant salad that serves as an excellent complement to your Christmas dinner. This dish features crisp green beans paired with crunchy almonds and a zesty garlic vinaigrette, creating a light and flavorful side that perfectly balances richer holiday dishes.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Sliced almonds ½ cup
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup, halved
Red onion ¼ cup, thinly sliced
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Rinse the fresh green beans under cold water and trim the tough stem ends. Prepare a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp. After blanching, immediately drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes, then drain again and pat dry.
  2. Toast the Almonds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them gently for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  3. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This will create a tangy and flavorful dressing for your salad.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted almonds.
  5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the garlic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure that the dressing evenly coats all the vegetables and almonds.
  6. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl. It can be served immediately or chilled for a short period in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy this refreshing holiday green bean salad alongside your festive meal!