Delicious Green Beans with Almonds and Cranberries Recipe: A Perfect Holiday Side Dish

#### Green Beans with Almonds and Cranberries RecipeWhen it comes to holiday meals or family gatherings, the perfect side dish can elevate your dining exper……

#### Green Beans with Almonds and Cranberries Recipe

When it comes to holiday meals or family gatherings, the perfect side dish can elevate your dining experience. One standout option is the Green Beans with Almonds and Cranberries Recipe. This dish not only brings vibrant color to your table but also combines delightful flavors and textures that will impress your guests.

#### Ingredients

To prepare this wonderful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed

- 1 cup of sliced almonds

- 1 cup of dried cranberries

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Blanch the Green Beans**: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

2. **Toast the Almonds**: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly.

3. **Sauté the Garlic**: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

4. **Combine Ingredients**: Drain the green beans from the ice water and add them to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to combine, then add the toasted almonds and dried cranberries. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

5. **Serve**: Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and enjoy this beautiful and flavorful Green Beans with Almonds and Cranberries Recipe warm.

#### Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, making it an excellent choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion. It complements roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a vegetarian nut loaf. The combination of crunchy almonds and sweet cranberries provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of your main dish.

#### Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this Green Beans with Almonds and Cranberries Recipe delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Green beans are low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, while cranberries are rich in antioxidants and can help boost your immune system.

#### Conclusion

In summary, the Green Beans with Almonds and Cranberries Recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal. Its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and balanced flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Whether you're hosting a holiday dinner or simply looking for a healthy side dish to accompany your weeknight meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to try it out and impress your family and friends with this beautiful and nutritious dish!