Spiced Almonds

I thought I'd share a heart healthy snack that I created for my father several years ago. He had suffered a stroke, and became concerned about what he was eating. His favourite snack was roasted peanuts, the brand he preferred was unbelievably high in sodium, sugars, and food additives. After he tried the first batch I prepared for him, he was hooked. He made this tasty snack for himself regularly. Almonds are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Additionally, almonds are a significant source of protein and fiber, while being naturally low in sugar. Many of the nutrients in almonds help contribute to increased heart health. The magnesium is critical in preventing heart attacks and hypertension. Vitamin E may help stop the development of plaque in your arteries. The fiber helps lower bad cholesterol as well as making you feel full, which helps prevent mindless snacking. A handful of almonds a day is a tasty and easy way to stay healthy!

Spiced Almonds Serves 4 • 4 Cups Unsalted Almonds • 2 Tbsp. Olive or Avocado Oil

• ¼ Tsp. Sea Salt • 1 Tsp. Dried Basil, or Dried Rosemary, or Dried Oregano, or Dried Parsley, or a combination • Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste, optional 1. Combine almonds and oil in a saucepan or skillet, sauté over low heat, about 5 minutes, stirring often. Almonds can burn quickly, so watch closely. 2. Transfer almonds to a bowl, and toss with dried herbs, sea salt, and pepper, if using. 3. Allow to cool, then serve. 4. Store the spiced almonds in a glass jar in the refrigerator