Thanksgiving is one of my absolute favorite holidays, and let me tell you, a fantastic *side dish for Thanksgiving* can make all the difference! This delicious green bean and almond dish has become a staple on my holiday table. It’s super easy to whip up, and your guests will be raving about it long after the turkey has been cleared away.
What I love most is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that looks elegant and tastes incredible. Plus, the crunch of the almonds paired with the tender green beans is simply heavenly! Trust me, this dish will not only complement your Thanksgiving spread but also bring a pop of color and flavor that everyone will appreciate.
So, whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just bringing a dish to share, this recipe is the way to go. Let’s dive into how to make this amazing side dish!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of green beans: Fresh, washed, and trimmed to remove the tough ends. You want them crisp and green!
- 1 cup of sliced almonds: These add a lovely crunch. Feel free to lightly toast them for extra flavor!
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil: This helps the green beans roast beautifully and adds a rich flavor.
- 2 cloves of garlic: Minced, to infuse that delicious garlicky goodness into the dish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy; seasoning is key to making those flavors pop!
How to Prepare This *Side Dish for Thanksgiving*
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your green beans roast perfectly!
- While the oven is heating up, wash and trim your green beans. Just snap off the tough ends; it’s super easy and makes a big difference in texture.
- In a large bowl, combine the green beans with the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the beans are nicely coated. You want to make sure each bean is ready to soak up all that delicious flavor!
- Next, spread the green bean mixture out evenly on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer to roast evenly. This is key, so don’t overcrowd them!
- Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the sliced almonds generously over the top. They’re going to get all toasty and add that fantastic crunch to your dish.
- Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender but still have a little bite. You’ll know they’re done when they’re bright green and fragrant. Yum!
- Once they’re out of the oven, serve them warm. Trust me, your guests will love this vibrant and tasty side!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy prep – you can whip this up in just 15 minutes!
- Minimal ingredients that are easy to find – no fancy shopping required!
- Delicious blend of flavors and textures – the crunch of almonds against tender green beans is simply irresistible.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering – it adds a fresh and colorful touch to your table.
- Make-ahead friendly – you can prepare it in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
- Vegetarian and healthy – packed with nutrients, this dish fits into a variety of diets.
- Versatile – feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or spices!
Tips for Success
To make sure your green bean and almond dish turns out perfect every time, I’ve got a few handy tips for you. Trust me, these little tricks can elevate your side dish game!
- Don’t skip the preheating: Preheating your oven is crucial for even cooking. If you toss the beans in before the oven is hot, they might steam instead of roast, and we want that lovely roasted flavor!
- Watch those green beans: Keep an eye on the beans as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, and you don’t want them to overcook. You’re aiming for tender but still crisp beans!
- Experiment with seasoning: Feel free to play around with different spices! A pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can really brighten up the dish.
- Toast those almonds: If you’ve got a few extra minutes, toasting the sliced almonds in a dry skillet before sprinkling them on can add a deeper flavor and extra crunch!
- Make it a day ahead: If you’re short on time on the big day, prep the green beans and almond mixture the day before, store it in the fridge, and then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
With these tips, you’ll have a stunning and delicious side dish that will wow your guests and make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable!
Variations of This *Side Dish for Thanksgiving*
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this green bean and almond dish! It’s super versatile, and I just love how a few tweaks can change the whole flavor profile. Here are some variations to try:
- Nutty Delight: Swap out the sliced almonds for other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or even pistachios! Each nut brings its own unique flavor and crunch, making it a fun experiment.
- Cheesy Goodness: For a richer taste, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the green beans during the last few minutes of baking. It melts beautifully and adds a savory kick!
- Spicy Kick: Looking to spice things up? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper with the olive oil. It adds a delightful heat that contrasts nicely with the green beans.
- Herb Infusion: Add some freshness by tossing in chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley before serving. The aroma will be incredible, and it elevates the dish to a whole new level!
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the green beans before baking for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory garlic and nuts. It’s a nice twist that’s perfect for the holidays!
- Garlic Lovers: If you can’t get enough garlic (like me!), feel free to double the amount of minced garlic. You’ll get that lovely pungent flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beans!
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to cater to different tastes and preferences. So don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own! Your Thanksgiving table will thank you.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delightful green bean and almond side dish ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to really create a Thanksgiving feast that’ll have everyone talking! Trust me, the right pairings can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
- Roast Turkey: Of course, the classic Thanksgiving turkey is a must! The savory flavors of the turkey pair beautifully with the fresh crunch of the green beans.
- Stuffing: Whether you go for traditional bread stuffing or a wild rice blend, the hearty texture will complement the lightness of the green beans perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a staple that everyone loves. The rich, buttery goodness balances out the crispness of the green beans.
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce will add a pop of sweetness and acidity, making each bite refreshing and delicious!
- Sweet Potato Casserole: The natural sweetness and warmth of sweet potatoes, especially with a crunchy topping, pairs wonderfully with the savory green beans.
- Rolls or Biscuits: Soft, warm rolls or flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors on your plate. Plus, they add a comforting touch to the meal.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a fresh element to your table, balancing out the richness of the other dishes.
Mix and match these serving suggestions to create a colorful and satisfying Thanksgiving spread! Your guests will love the variety, and the combination of flavors will make for a truly memorable meal. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve enjoyed this delicious green bean and almond side dish, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers. Don’t worry, it’s super easy! Here’s how to keep your dish fresh and tasty:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the green beans to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re sealed well to keep that great flavor intact!
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the green beans out on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help retain their crunch and prevent them from getting soggy.
- Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in the microwave. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure they don’t overcook.
And there you have it! Simple storage and reheating instructions to keep your green bean and almond side dish delicious for days to come. Enjoy those leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to delicious side dishes, I love knowing that I’m also keeping things nutritious! This green bean and almond dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers some great health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
This dish is a fantastic way to add some greens and healthy fats to your Thanksgiving table. Plus, with all those lovely nutrients, you can feel good about indulging in this delicious side! Enjoy every bite knowing it’s not just tasty, but also good for you!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
You can, but fresh green beans really shine in this dish! If you do use frozen, just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture. You want those beans to roast, not steam!
What if I don’t have sliced almonds?
No worries! You can easily substitute with other nuts like pecans or walnuts. If you’re in a pinch, even sunflower seeds can add a nice crunch!
Can I prepare this side dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can wash and trim the green beans a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just toss everything together and bake when you’re ready to serve!
How do I know when the green beans are done?
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re bright green and tender but still have a little crunch. A quick taste test is always a good idea to ensure they’re just how you like them!
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and flavor. Just keep in mind that some veggies may need different cooking times, so you might want to roast them separately.
Side Dish for Thanksgiving: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy side dish perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of green beans
- 1 cup of sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and trim the green beans.
- In a bowl, mix the green beans with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the beans are tender.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to add other nuts for variety.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: side dish for thanksgiving
