Whether you are toasting almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts – how to toast nuts is pretty much the same method regardless of the type of nut. Toasting nuts bring out more flavor and character which is less noticeable than when eating the nuts raw.
Here is the basic rule of thumb or guideline when wanting to roast or rather toast, some nuts.
Start by preheating the oven, or toaster oven, to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it is preheating place the nuts on a baking tray and spread them out so they are not overlapping or piled on top of each other.
By spreading them in a single layer you are allowing the nuts to toast evenly through the whole batch. Once the oven is preheated, bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Make sure to check on them periodically to make sure they do not begin to burn.
What you are looking for is a nice golden brown color. However, remember that many nuts contains oils and as their temperature rises the oils will begin to heat and come out of the actual nut. Oil can get very hot so be careful when removing them from the oven, and do not touch them directly, but instead let them cool.
The worst thing you can do is pop one of these aromatic delicacies in your mouth as you will be in quite a bit of pain if they have not cooled.
How do I know this? Let’s just say, you can trust me on this one.
Nuts are a great source of omega three which is a fatty acid essential for proper brain function. Omega three is commonly talked about in the Mediterranean diet, because you will get omega three through eating fish such as salmon or tuna which are very common food items in the Mediterranean region.
Some people think that you should never eat nuts because they are high in fat, but this is not the case. Instead it is important to eat nuts which are not loaded with salt or butter, and to eat perhaps just a few handfuls a day. Some would say one handful a day, but if are talking about the Italian eater let’s get real.
These are great snacks to keep that your desk or in the house. It is also a good food item to have out when entertaining company or guests.
Enjoy your nuts, but remember you do not have to go to nutty over nuts!
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