(NewsUSA) - Here's a simple yet sophisticated idea for
turning traditional vegetable dishes into haute cuisine: Just add almonds. Whether slivered,
sliced, roasted, or diced, almonds add flavor, texture and that "little something extra" to many of
your favorite foods for entertaining.
Their delicate, toasty flavor and crunch complement
nearly any dish, especially green vegetables. It's a simple change that can make a big difference
in your vegetable dish, as well as in your health.
Not only are almonds rich in vitamin E,
fiber and magnesium, but recent research shows they also contain flavonoid antioxidants in levels
comparable to broccoli and tea. This high antioxidant content makes almonds a healthy treat for
entertaining guests.
In addition, research shows that eating a handful (about 23) of
almonds a day may actually help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Plus, they have protein and
satisfying heart-healthy fat.
For the ultimate antioxidant punch, sprinkle slivered
almonds over freshly steamed broccoli - or try them in this recipe, which is a fresh twist on the
traditional green beans with almonds. For more almond recipes, visit href="http://about.newsusa.com/redirect/?memberID=3904&ArticleID=4600&CategoryId=&redirect=http://www.AlmondsAreIn.com">www.AlmondsAreIn.com.
ROASTED
GREEN BEANS WITH ALMOND BRITTLE
(Makes 4 servings)
1 pound fresh green
beans, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/3 cup whole natural almonds, roughly chopped
1/2 cup sugar
Preheat
oven to 375 F. Place green beans in a baking pan and toss with olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Place almonds on a baking sheet. Roast almonds and green beans for 10 minutes. Cover green
beans with foil and roast for an additional 30 minutes.
While green beans are roasting,
make the brittle. Spray a sheet of foil with cooking spray and set aside. Place sugar and 1/2 cup
of water in a small, very clean saucepan, ensuring sugar is completely covered with water.
Turn heat to high and bring to a simmer. Let caramelize until deep, golden brown, watching
constantly, as this happens fairly quickly. Stir in chopped almonds, still warm from the oven.
Spread this sticky brittle on prepared foil. Sprinkle with remaining salt and let
cool.
Add crumbled almond brittle to cooked green beans.

