Bursting with flavor, savory seasoned almonds are the perfect topping for your favorite side or main dish. In a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, toss whole natural or slivered almonds in a small amount of vegetable oil until golden. Add your choice of dried herbs, then sprinkle over salads, vegetables and pasta. Mix toasted slivered or sliced almonds into grain-based dishes, such as Middle Eastern classic tabbouleh or other bulgur wheat salads to add flavor, nutrition and crunch. The mild flavor of almonds is the perfect complement to vibrant Asian flavors.
Almond butter is a nutritious and hearty topping for bagels or muffins.
And, it's easy to make at home by chopping whole natural almonds in a food processor with a little vegetable oil, salt and sugar until almost smooth. Visual appeal is important in low-fat cooking. Make a prudent parfait look sinful by layering frozen yogurt, pureed frozen berries and toasted sliced almonds in an elegant stemmed glass. Or, make individual trifles by adding layers of cubed angel food cake. Garnish with sprigs of mint, sliced almonds or whole berries, and serve with almond biscotti.