This Crispy Green Bean Almond Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic dish, bringing together freshness and crunch in every bite. It's a perfect side dish for any dinner table, especially during festive gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Fresh green beans are the star of this dish, offering a crisp texture and vibrant color. Olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics and toast the topping. Sliced almonds provide a nutty crunch that complements the beans. Breadcrumbs add texture and help the topping stay crispy. Lemon zest brings a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream. Vegetable broth and heavy cream combine to create a luscious sauce that envelops the beans. Onion and garlic add depth and aroma to the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, balancing all the flavors beautifully.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty mushroom risotto or a simple quinoa salad. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish's flavors perfectly.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures it's hot and ready when it's time to bake the casserole. Next, bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 3 minutes. This helps them keep their vibrant color and crisp texture. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
While the beans chill, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes. Now, toss in the sliced almonds and breadcrumbs, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown. The aroma of toasted nuts and bread is your cue that they’re ready. Stir in lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste, and set the mixture aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth and heavy cream until smooth. Place the blanched green beans in a casserole dish, pour the cream mixture over them, and give it a gentle stir to coat the beans. Finally, sprinkle the almond mixture evenly over the top.
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is bubbly and golden brown, filling your kitchen with a deliciously inviting aroma. Let it cool slightly before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together.
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