Green Beans with Shallots and Almonds

Green beans are a classic side dish on holiday tables, but Mrs. Mayfair’s version elevates them with the delicate sweetness of caramelized shallots and the delightful crunch of toasted almonds. This simple yet elegant recipe complements the richness of main dishes like roasted turkey or glazed ham, while adding a fresh and vibrant touch to your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread. It’s a timeless side that combines simplicity with sophistication.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 1½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 medium shallots, thinly sliced
• ½ cup slivered almonds, lightly toasted
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

1. Blanch the Green Beans
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and pat dry.

2. Toast the Almonds
   In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Caramelize the Shallots
   Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Lower the heat if needed to prevent burning.

4. Combine and Cook
   Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the shallots. Toss to coat the beans in the shallot mixture, and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and white pepper.

5. Finish with Almonds
   Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted almonds over the green beans. For a bright, fresh finish, drizzle with a little lemon juice.

6. Serve Warm
   Transfer the beans to a serving dish and serve immediately, garnished with extra almonds or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Perfect Green Beans

• Blanching: This quick cooking method ensures the beans retain their vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture.
• Shallots: Thinly slicing the shallots helps them caramelize evenly and adds a subtle sweetness to the dish.
• Almonds: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and brings a delightful crunch. Be careful not to burn them.

Pairing Suggestions

These green beans shine alongside a variety of holiday dishes, including:

• Mrs. Mayfair’s Perfect Roast Turkey for a classic pairing.
• Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes with Sage and Pecans for a balance of textures and flavors.
• Cranberry Sauce with Port and Orange to add a tangy note to your meal.

This dish embodies the philosophy of Living Beautifully—elevating simple ingredients with thoughtful preparation to create something truly special. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, Mrs. Mayfair’s Green Beans with Shallots and Almonds are sure to be a hit at your holiday table.