Yellow Wax Beans with Toasted Almonds

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10-15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:
  1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  1 pound yellow wax beans, ends trimmed
  2 Tablespoons olive oil
  2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  3/4 cup (about 3 ounces) whole blanched almonds, coarsely chopped
  1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
1.  Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot.  Add 1 tablespoon of the salt and the wax beans, return to a boil, and cook until just tender, about 3 minutes.
2.  Drain and plunge into a bowl of ice water.  Drain again and set aside.
3.  Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add the almonds and cook, stirring often, until they begin to turn golden but not brown, about 2 minutes.
4.  Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with the remaining salt and the pepper.  Place the beans in a large bowl, toss with the almonds, and serve.