If you're on the lookout for a side dish that combines healthy greens with a nutty crunch, this Sautéed Almond Green Bean Casserole is your answer! Perfect for any gathering, it's easy to prepare and adds a delightful twist to the traditional green bean casserole.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to have it ready to go when your skillet work is done. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, add the sliced almonds. Stir them frequently, keeping a close eye, as they can go from golden brown to burnt quickly. Once they're golden and fragrant, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions become translucent, which should take just a few minutes. This step builds the aromatic foundation of the dish. Now, sprinkle in the flour and stir for about a minute; this eliminates the raw flour taste and starts the thickening process.
Next, gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Keep stirring until the sauce begins to thicken — you want it to coat the back of a spoon. Add the green beans to the skillet, tossing them so they’re well-coated in the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer everything to a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top, followed by the Parmesan cheese. Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until everything is bubbly and golden. Serve it warm, and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures!
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it an excellent choice for holiday feasts or Sunday dinners. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty grain dish like quinoa or farro.
Green beans are the star here, providing a fresh and crisp bite. Make sure they’re trimmed and washed for best results. Olive oil helps toast the almonds and sauté the vegetables without overpowering their flavors. Sliced almonds bring a toasty, nutty crunch to the dish, while diced onions add a savory depth. A couple of cloves of garlic offer a subtle kick, and low-sodium chicken broth forms the base of the creamy sauce. Heavy cream thickens the sauce to coat the beans luxuriously. A touch of all-purpose flour helps to thicken the sauce further. Salt and black pepper enhance the flavors, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish.