Nuts, especially almonds, are one of the best snack foods! In fact, almonds are little powerhouses when it comes to nutrition. One ounce (28 grams) or a small handful of almonds is high in protein (about 6 grams) and fiber (3.5 grams) and the “good” kind of fat (monounsaturated). They are naturally low in carbohydrates, high in natural antioxidants and high in vitamins and minerals like magnesium, copper, zinc, vitamins B2 and E, and phosphorous. Eating a handful of almonds helps to regulate blood sugar, so you get a boost of energy, decrease your hunger, and stay satisfied longer. Its no surprise that almonds are the most popular tree nut and snack food.
While almonds are a great snack, they can often be commercially packaged with lots of salt or artificial flavors. Plain, raw almonds are the best form of almonds, but they are bland and often lack flavor. I decided to gently ramp up the flavor or almonds and keep them a healthy snack with some great taste.
Roasting nuts brings out their flavors and these recipes give you easy ways to prepare almonds–from sweet and salty to lightly sugar coated. Once prepared, these nuts keep for 1 to 2 in a sealed container, but with these flavors, they won’t last long! A batch of these nuts makes a perfect host or hostess gift and they’re great to serve at a party or after a meal.
Try chopping them and sprinkling them over salads, roasted or steamed vegetables or stirred into yogurt. Try sprinkling some over hot oatmeal or farina or make them into small packets to keep in your bag, pocket, or in a lunch box. These make a perfect homemade gift to send your guests home with or put them in decorative jars for a homemade holiday gift. The possibilities are endless!
Sweet and Salty Nuts
Makes 8 servings
- 2 cups whole, raw almonds
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper or Chinese 5 Spice powder (optional)
- 4 tablespoons honey (natural or local honey is best)
- 2 tablespoons light olive oil
- Preheat the over to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, add the almonds, salt, cayenne pepper or Chinese 5 Spice powder (if using), honey and light olive oil. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the nuts to the prepared baking sheet and evenly spread them out. Bake 12 to 14 minutes until the honey caramelizes and the almonds are fragrant.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- Store in an air-tight container for up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Maple Cinnamon Almonds
Makes 8 servings
- 2 cups whole, raw almonds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons natural maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon light olive oil
- Preheat the oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In large bowl, add the almonds, cinnamon, salt, maple syrup and light olive oil. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the nuts to the prepared baking sheet and evenly spread them out. Bake 12 to 14 minutes until the honey caramelizes and the almonds are fragrant.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- Store in an air-tight container for up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Sugar Coated Almonds
Makes 8 servings
- ¾ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
- 2 cups whole, raw almonds
- In a small bowl, combine the white sugar, brown sugar and salt. Mix well. Set aside.
- In a large skillet or medium non-stick saucepan, heat the water to a low simmer. Do not boil.
- Add the sugar mixture and stir to combine. Bring to a low boil and add the almonds, stirring to evenly coat the almonds.
- Cook over medium high heat, 12 to 15 minutes, until the liquid reduces and begins to thicken, stirring often.
- When the liquid is almost fully reduced, stir constantly. The liquid will become a flaky, crystallized coating on the nuts. Remove from the heat.
- Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and allow them to cool completely.
- Store in an air tight container or a resealable bag for 1 to 2 weeks.