Green bean almondine, a classic French side dish, is at home on every Southern table.

shallot, chopped (about 1/4 cup)

1tsp.grated lemon zest plus 2 tsp.

Bring to a boil over medium-high.

Green Bean Almondine on a platter

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Meanwhile, fill a large bowl with ice water; set aside.

Add green beans to boiling water; cook until bright green and tender-crisp, 3 to 4 minutes.

Using tongs, transfer green beans to ice water; let stand until chilled, about 4 minutes.

green beans in ice water

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Transfer green beans to a large baking sheet lined with paper towels; set aside.

Add almonds and shallot; cook, stirring often, until almonds are slightly toasted, about 2 minutes.

Transfer mixture to a platter.

green beans draining on paper towels

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cooking almonds in butter

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Jennifer Wenddorf; Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

cooking green beans almondine in skillet

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Jennifer Wenddorf; Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

green beans almondine on platter

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Jennifer Wenddorf; Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen