1-First Steps: Prepping and Blanching Start with the fresh green beans. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and get a bowl of ice water ready. Blanch the 12 ounces of fresh green beans in the boiling water for 2 minutes until they’re crisp-tender and bright green, then drain and plunge them into the ice water to stop cooking. Dry them on a towel afterward for the best texture.

2-Adding Flavors and Toasting: Next, toast the 2 tablespoons of sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes, then set them aside. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and sauté the thinly sliced shallot with ½ teaspoon of salt until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the blanched green beans and cook for 2 to 4 more minutes until warmed through.

3-Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and stir in the grated clove of garlic and ½ tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Finally, transfer to a serving dish and top with the toasted almonds. This step ensures the garlic butter flavor shines without overpowering the dish.