Monday's Food Tip: Go Nuts Over Almonds!

Almonds are a healthy snack and add nutritional value to all sorts of other dishes. In fact, did you know that, ounce for ounce, almonds are the most nutritionally dense nut? A one-ounce serving (about a handful) of almonds is an excellent source of vitamin E and magnesium, a good source of protein and fiber, and also contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, potassium, calcium, phosphorous and iron.

So go nuts over almonds and add more of these tasty little treats to your daily diet. Try these simple recipes:



Sugared Almonds

1 Tbsp. egg white
2 Tbsp. granulated sugar
2 cups sliced almonds

Preheat oven to 350 F. Whisk the egg white until foamy. Add sugar and whisk until white, but not stiff. Fold in almonds to coat. Spoon almonds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cool almonds before serving. Store them in an airtight container for up to one month.


ALMOND BUTTER

Almond butter makes a hearty and delicious topping for bagels or muffins. You can find it ready-made in grocery stores, but it’s easy to make yourself.

Grind together 1 cup roasted almonds and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a food processor or blender. Add 3 tablespoons almond or vegetable oil in a slow, steady stream. Blend until almost smooth. Makes 3/4 cup.


ALMOND CROUTONS

Add these crunchy croutons to a green salad just before serving, or sprinkle them on steamed vegetables.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Toss 2/3 cup slivered almonds with 2 teaspoons olive oil in a shallow baking pan. Arrange almonds in a single layer in pan. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt. Bake 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown, tossing once.