Almonds
Whether you're looking for a healthy snack food, a subtle, delicious topping, an elegant garnish, or a new alternative for cooking, almonds are a delicious food you can use in a variety of diverse recipes. Here are a few suggestions on why you should consider almonds on your next shopping list.
Almonds come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. The most common variety are large, dark nuts that range from sweet to bitter in flavor. Marcona almonds are lighter and sweeter in flavor and are typically packaged slathered in olive oil and sea salt to preserve their flavor and freshness. Both bitter and sweet almonds are used in thousands of different dishes, desserts, drinks, oils, and powders. Thus, when it comes to cooking with almonds, your only limit is your own skill and imagination.
Almonds are most commonly seen on desserts and pastries. How many times have you enjoyed a donut, a sundae, or piece of cheesecake that's been coated with almond shavings? Almonds are a natural companion to chocolate as well, as their light, sweet flavor compliments all types of chocolate very well indeed. Their crunchy texture makes them more ideal than softer nuts, such as cashews or peanuts.
Almonds are also pressed into liquids as well. Sweet almond oil is used both in cooking and as a facial treatment. Almond milk is a wonderful alternative to those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. Similarly, almond butter is a great alternative for those who are allergic to peanuts. Almond flour is even used as a gluten free method for making bread. Whether seasoned with sea salt or other seasonings, such as rosemary, garlic, honey, or cayenne, almonds make the perfect snack as well.
Along with their diverse cooking purposes, almonds are incredibly healthy. Rich in omega 6, omega 9, vitamin E, fiber, protein, and more. Studies show that eating almonds are great for lowering cholesterol. They also contain absolutely no carbohydrates, for all they may taste oily and fattening. Almonds have also been proven to improve skin complexion, increase energy, and ease bowel movements.
With all this in mind, it's easy to see why almonds are a popular health food. Sprinkle them on your salad for an interesting new taste and texture or pour them in your trail mix the next time you go hiking. Regardless of how you use them, you will be investing in a healthy, delicious snack that will do its part to nourish you as well as satisfy any salt cravings. Learn more today!