Pecans If you have raw pecans, toasting them can be an easy way to bring out the sweetness and nuttiness of the pecans and will only take an extra 5 minutes. Heat ½ tsp of oil in a skillet over low-medium heat to toast pecans. Once hot, place the pecans in the skillet and allow them to cook, stirring occasionally. Once the pecans start to smell toasty, take them off the heat and allow them to cool. Please do not wait for them to turn dark brown or black. Sprinkle with a bit of sea salt and then add to the salad.