Garlic Lemon Green Beans with Toasted Almonds

This vibrant side dish features tender green beans sautéed with garlic and brightened with fresh lemon juice, finished with a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a delightful crunch. It's a perfect blend of traditional flavors with a creative twist, making it a standout addition to any meal. Plus, it's vegetarian and gluten-free!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the green beans for about 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. Remove from heat and add the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to combine.
5. Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and sprinkle with the toasted almonds before serving.