Thanksgiving Green Beans

Save this recipe on:

Thanksgiving Green Beans are the perfect vibrant and flavorful side dish to round out your holiday table. Lightly sauteed and tossed with toasted almonds and garlic, these beans bring a fresh, nutty crunch to rich roasts and creamy casseroles. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simplify your feast prep, this dish delivers both elegance and ease.

They shine not just for their texture and flavor, but also because they balance out heavier holiday dishes. The green beans remain tender-crisp, while the garlic and lemon zest add brightness and depth. It’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making beyond the holidays, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings.

What Kind of Green Beans Should I Use?

Fresh, slender green beans (also called haricots verts) work best for this dish. They cook quickly, maintain their crunch, and absorb flavor beautifully. If using regular green beans, just be sure to trim and blanch them for the perfect texture.

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Green Beans

• Fresh Green Beans: The star of the show. Choose bright, firm beans for optimal crunch.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and bringing richness.
• Garlic: Adds a warm, savory depth that complements the freshness of the beans.
• Lemon Zest: Enhances the dish with citrusy brightness.
• Toasted Almonds: Brings crunch and nuttiness.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds color and a herbaceous finish.

---

How To Make the Thanksgiving Green Beans

Step 1: Blanch the Beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Drain and transfer immediately to an ice bath to stop the cooking.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Beans

Add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat with the garlic oil. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Sprinkle lemon zest, toasted almonds, salt, pepper, and parsley over the beans. Give it a gentle toss and serve warm.

---

Serving and Storing These Green Beans

Serve the Thanksgiving Green Beans immediately while they’re still warm and crisp. They make a beautiful addition to any holiday table or weekday meal.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture.

What to Serve With Thanksgiving Green Beans?

Roasted Turkey

The classic pairing, bringing out the bright crunch of the beans.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Try them with this cheesy main dish for a balanced and elegant dinner.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent—these potatoes complement the freshness of the green beans beautifully.

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni

A hearty pasta dish meets its match in this crisp green bean side.

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

For a lighter meal, the citrusy cod plays wonderfully with these beans.

Scalloped Potatoes

Another creamy classic that deserves a fresh green contrast.

Marry Me Chicken

If you’re planning a cozy dinner, this saucy chicken dish is rich and flavorful beside a pile of green beans.

---

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re loving these green beans, check out these other side dishes to complement your meals:

• Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for a cheesy, oven-baked variation.
• Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes for indulgent comfort.
• Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions for a crispy skillet classic.
• Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes if you want a juicy, tangy pop on the side.
• Roasted Broccoli and Sweet Potatoes for another nutritious and colorful side.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest veggie board so you can return to it for holiday feasts or clean weeknight eats.

Let me know in the comments how you seasoned your green beans! Did you go with classic garlic or try something zesty like red pepper flakes? Did you serve it warm or cold?

I love hearing your tweaks and ideas. Questions welcome, too—we’re all learning together in the kitchen.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting sides and seasonal dishes on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes Pinterest and find your new kitchen favorites.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: