Microwave-Toasted Nuts

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup shelled raw whole nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, or pine nuts)
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (optional) or melted butter (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   In a microwave safe dish (I used a Pyrex pie plate), place the nuts evenly in a single layer (coat them in the fat, if using).

2. 2

   Microwave on HIGH heat for 2 minutes, stir, and continue to cook and stir at one minute intervals, until nuts are fragrant and light golden brown in color. Be careful not to let them scorch. Use potholders.

3. 3

   (Note: total cook time is about 5 minutes for whole nuts-- smaller amounts or sliced nuts or sesame seeds could be done in as little as 2 minutes, larger amounts of nuts will take longer and not cook as evenly, therefore 1/2 cup of nuts is optimal for even cooking. The optional addition of the fat will speed cooking time somewhat).

4. 4

   IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS: Be sure to use potholders as the dish will become hot. Do NOT add water to the hot dish, as it may crack.

5. 5

   Let cool at room temperature.

6. 6

   Use in recipes or for snacking. Makes a nice holiday or hostess gift in a jar with a fabric lid, tied with pretty ribbon or raffia.