Yellow Wax Beans with Toasted Almonds

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

Preparation

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. Drain and plunge into a bowl of ice water. Drain again and set aside. 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. 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.
   
   Tip: You can use fresh green beans instead of yellow wax beans.