Green Tinsel Beans

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### 1. Prepare the Green Beans
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for 3–4 minutes, until they’re tender but still crisp and vibrant. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat them dry.

#### 2. Toast the Nuts
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds (or your nut of choice) until they’re golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

#### 3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until it turns golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn it! Stir in the citrus zest for a burst of fresh aroma.

#### 4. Toss the Beans
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the garlicky, zesty goodness. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the beans are heated through.

#### 5. Finish with Toppings
Transfer the green beans to a serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted nuts over the top for crunch and garnish with your choice of Parmesan cheese or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and festive flair.

### Why You’ll Love This Dish

– **Fast and Easy:** This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
– **Nutrient-Packed:** Green beans are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while the nuts and citrus add heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.
– **Versatile:** You can swap out the nuts, use a mix of citrus zest, or even drizzle honey for a sweeter twist.
– **Gorgeous Presentation:** The vibrant green, golden garlic, and colorful garnishes make this dish a feast for the eyes.

### Serving Suggestions

– Pair these **Green Tinsel Beans** with roast chicken, turkey, or beef for a festive feast.
– Add them to a buffet spread as a lighter vegetable side to balance out heavier dishes.
– Serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa for a simple, plant-based main course.

### Pro Tips

1. **Blanching is Key:** Blanching the beans ensures they keep their bright green color and crisp texture. Don’t skip the ice water step!
2. **Customize the Crunch:** Try sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or crispy fried onions as an alternative to nuts.
3. **Make It Your Own:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or drizzle balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

### Final Thoughts

**Green Tinsel Beans** are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just looking to elevate a weeknight dinner, this dish will shine on your table like a string of festive lights. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it a part of your culinary traditions year-round.

So, grab your green beans and get ready to add some sparkle to your meals—this recipe is sure to dazzle your taste buds!