High in antioxidants, almonds have been proven in studies to help lower blood sugar and insulin levels after eating by reducing the glycemic index. These protein rich nuts are a great way to have a healthy snack or mixed into another dish for a flavorful meal.

A handful of raw almonds is a very good source of vitamin E, manganese and potassium. Plus they are a good source of the “good fats” aka monounsaturated fats. A 28-month study of 8,865 men and women published in the journal Obesity showed that people who ate nuts at least twice a week were much less likely to gain weight than those who almost never ate nuts. So try a few almond recipes today.

• Whip up a tasty Almond Orange Salad with romaine lettuce, celery, green onions, parsley, oil and vinegar, hot sauces and oranges.
• Take advantage of fresh mushrooms, with lemon, butter, parsley and smoky-flavored almonds to make our Almond and Mushroom Topped Perch dish. It takes only 20 minutes to prepare once fish is thawed or is cooked fresh.  Tip: Buy 2 pounds of perch, divided into 1/3 lb. fillets that are ½ inch thick. Look for ocean perch that smells fresh and mild.
• For the next picnic or family gathering bake some Almond Brownies. Because the recipe makes a large batch, it’s great for big gatherings.
• Or make our Peach-Almond Tart made with almond paste, sliced almonds, fresh peaches and peach preserve and a few other ingredients.  Tip: Shortening makes a pastry crust tender, but butter gives it a great flavor. Using equal parts shortening and butter gives you the best of both worlds.

 

Tagged as: almonds, brownies, fish, recipes, Salad, tart, tips