Green beans with hazelnuts and lemon –Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Green beans with toasted hazelnuts and lemon make for a perfect side dish that combines the crunch of nuts with the freshness of green beans. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this dish will certainly impress!
Green Beans with Toasted Hazelnuts and Lemon
This recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh green beans, enhanced by the rich, nutty taste of toasted hazelnuts and the zesty brightness of lemon. It’s a dish that celebrates simple ingredients while delivering on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
- Begin by toasting the hazelnuts. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before chopping.
- While the nuts are toasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook them for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Once cooked, drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help retain their vibrant color and crispness.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to create a dressing.
- Drain the green beans from the ice water and pat them dry. Add the beans to the bowl with the dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Finally, fold in the toasted hazelnuts and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serve the dish warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the fresh, nutty flavors that make this recipe a standout!
There you have it! A simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to be a hit at any meal. Enjoy the wonderful combination of textures and flavors in every bite. Happy cooking!