photoI have a super simple, extra delicious recipe to share today. This recipe is all about almonds, something I can’t live without. I literally take them everywhere with me…. I have baggies of almonds in my purse, car, school bag and pretty much everywhere!!

One of my guilty pleasures when I go to hockey rinks, baseball games or other sporting events is to get candied nuts…yumm. But those definitely aren’t good for you, and I also feel guilty afterwards for eating them! So I decided to look for a healthy version of candied nuts. I found a perfect recipe and made a few slight alterations of my own!

These coconut-roasted almonds are perfect for snacking, adding to salads or homemade trail mixes. This is such a delicious treat, sweet, salty and crunchy! I can’t get enough of them.

Now for some nutritional facts about almonds:

  • Great source of healthy fat
  • High in protein
  • High in fiber
  • Protection against diabetes and cardiovascular disease
  • Excellent source of minerals and vitamins- specifically vitamin E (skin care benefits)
  • Powerful antioxidant
  • Lowers “bad” cholesterol
  • Help build strong bones and teeth
  • Help provide good brain function
  • Alkalize the body (almonds are the only nut that does this)
  • Boosts energy

Prep time: 5 mins

Cook time: 10-12 mins

Total time: 7 mins

Now for the extremely easy recipe that only takes a few minutes! Just a caution, remember to keep an eye on the almonds as they burn very quickly.

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Ingredients

▪    2 cups raw almonds (preferably organic)

▪    2 Tablespoons of natural maple syrup

▪    1 Tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut (can be found in the organic section of most grocery stores)

▪    1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

▪    1/3 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

  1. Pre-heat oven to 375°.
  2. In a mixing bowl, mix together the following ingredients: almonds, maple syrup, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Toss ingredients until almonds are well coated.
  3. Spread almonds out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes. Flip almonds half way through. Remove from oven and cool for at least 60 minutes. Store in a sealed container. Image

Enjoy!!

~Jamie