There are two sorts of almonds, the bitter almond and the sweet almond. Both varieties are native to the Middle East but have been grown widely in Europe and the Americas for centuries. Almonds were a prized ingredient in breads served to Egypt's Pharaohs, and they have earned themselves a place in the history and ethnic culture of many regions. The Romans gave almonds at weddings as a symbol of fertility and prosperity, a tradition that continues in Italy to this day with sugared almonds.
Almonds have a diverse use in cooking.
Bitter almonds are used for almond oil, which is added to many dishes as a flavouring. Sweet almonds are used in a variety of both sweet and savoury dishes. Place all the vegetables into an ovenproof dish and mix well. Pour liberal amounts of olive oil over the vegetables and mix again. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes, stirring every so often.