Almonds Add a Fresh Twist and Good Health to Entertaining

(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 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.