HARICOTS VERTS AND GOAT CHEESE SALAD WITH ALMONDS

Haricots Verts and Goat Cheese Salad with Almonds image

Yield serves 6

Number Of Ingredients 7

2 ounces whole almonds (about 1/2 cup)
Coarse salt
1 1/2 pounds haricots verts, ends trimmed
1 1/2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Freshly ground pepper
2 1/2 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds on a rimmed baking sheet, and place in the oven. Toast until they are fragrant and golden, about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven; let cool. Roughly chop; set aside.
Meanwhile, bring a stockpot of water to a boil, and add salt and the haricots verts; cook until their color brightens and the beans are crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Drain, and transfer to a baking sheet; let cool, about 5 minutes.
While still warm, toss the beans in a serving bowl with the vinegar and olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Add the goat cheese, and stir to melt slightly and coat the beans. Sprinkle with the almonds, and serve.