Sauteed Haricots Verts Recipe

Preparing these haricots verts is a delightful way to bring a hint of elegance to any dinner table, with the fresh garlic and lemon zest invigorating the palate in a subtle, yet vibrant fashion. The optional toasted almonds add both texture and a nutty depth, making this simple dish a standout feature in my recipe collection.

I love how cooking haricots verts turns these slender French green beans into a nutrient-rich side dish. When combined with olive oil, minced garlic, and a hint of lemon zest, they develop a delightful flavor.

Almonds add a surprisingly satisfying crunch—and then there’s the salt and pepper to perfectly complement this simple, wholesome dish.

Sauteed Haricots Verts Recipe Ingredients

• Haricots Verts: Rich in fiber and vitamin C; low in calories.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats; provides smooth, rich flavor.
• Garlic: Strong aromatic; offers vitamins and antioxidants.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh tangy taste; high in vitamin C.
• Toasted Sliced Almonds: Adds crunch, protein, and healthy fats.

Sauteed Haricots Verts Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound haricots verts (French green beans), trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds (optional)

How to Make this Sauteed Haricots Verts Recipe

1. Put a big pot of salted water on to boil. When it comes to a full, rolling boil, add the haricots verts and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes, until they are bright green and just tender-crisp.

2. Drain the haricots verts and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the haricots from becoming overcooked and mushy. Drain again and pat dry with paper towels.

3. In a sizable frying pan, warm the olive oil on medium. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for around 30 seconds until its aroma fills the air, taking care not to let it scorch.

4. Toss the haricots verts in the skillet so that they are coated in the oil and the garlic. They shouldn’t still be reduced to little sticks; they should still be their long, slim selves, although they might have squishy ends. They are likely much longer and thinner than any green bean you’ve ever seen. These are a French green bean.

5. Put the skillet on the stove and add the unsalted butter. When it has melted, and the foam has subsided, add the haricots verts, and sauté them for 3-4 minutes. Then, keep cooking them for another 2-3 minutes, so they can become tender.

6. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste on the haricots verts.

7. Combine the lemon juice and lemon zest with the haricots verts, and toss to evenly distribute the flavors.

8. Sauté for one more minute to meld all the flavors.

9. Move the haricots verts to a serving dish.

10. To serve, if you like, you can add toasted sliced almonds on top for extra crunch and nuttiness.

Sauteed Haricots Verts Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Colander
3. Large bowl
4. Ice
5. Paper towels
6. Sizable frying pan (or skillet)
7. Stirring spoon or spatula
8. Tongs
9. Zester or grater (for lemon zest)
10. Knife and cutting board (for minced garlic)
11. Measuring spoons
12. Serving dish

FAQ

• Can I use regular green beans instead of haricots verts?You can use standard green beans. However, haricots verts taste better. They are more tender and have a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Can I use a different type of oil?Yes, another vegetable oil, such as canola oil, or a flavored oil, such as avocado oil, can replace olive oil.
• How can I make this recipe dairy-free?Skip the butter, using another tablespoon of olive oil in its place.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?You can serve this dish right away, but you can also prep the elements in advance. To do that, stop the beans in their tracks so they don’t cook any longer. Blanching sets the bright color and fresh flavor of the beans. After the beans are stopped, you can sauté them quickly with the garlic and garnish with lemon and parsley.
• How do I toast the almonds?Sliced almonds can be toasted in a dry skillet over medium heat. Shake the pan occasionally to make sure the almonds are toasting evenly. Cook until they are golden brown.
• What can I use instead of almonds for a nut-free option?Toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a crispy topping.
• Could I add other vegetables to this dish?Surely! Diced bell peppers or thinly sliced shallots would pair nicely with the flavors.

Sauteed Haricots Verts Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Canola oil or avocado oil: Substitute these oils for olive oil and get a completely different flavor.
Garlic: If fresh garlic is not available, substitute with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
Use ghee or coconut oil in place of unsalted butter for a dairy-free version.
Lemon extract: Use lime extract for a similar, yet different flavor.
Almonds that have been cut into thin pieces: Replace them with walnut pieces that have been chopped up or leave them out entirely for a nut-free option.

Pro Tips

1. Blanching and Shocking Ensure your ice water bath is ready before you start blanching the haricots verts. This step is crucial for preserving their vibrant color and crisp texture.

2. Garlic Control Keep the heat moderate when cooking the garlic to prevent it from burning, which can impart a bitter taste. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, consider using whole crushed garlic cloves and removing them after sautéing.

3. Butter Use Add the butter after the oil has been heated and the garlic cooked. This helps to prevent the butter from burning, as it has a lower smoking point than olive oil.

4. Balancing Acidity Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your taste preferences. A touch of lemon zest can be sprinkled over at the end for an extra burst of freshness.

5. Almonds Toasting If you decide to use almonds, lightly toast them in a dry pan over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds a delicious crunch. Add them just before serving to maintain their texture.