Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 5 thinly sliced garlic cloves, cook stirring about 2 minutes. Add 2 and half pounds trimmed green beans with salt and pepper, cook for 2 minutes.
Add ½ cup water, cover and cook until tender, about 6 minutes, then uncover and boil until water evaporates about 1 minute. Season green beans with salt and pepper and top with chopped almonds before serving.