Seasonal snacking: festive almonds

New research shows that 59 per cent of Brits regularly feel guilty snacking between meals, with 18-24 year olds being the quickest to say no to a snack. Yet a simple snack of almonds is key to hitting your daily nutritional needs. Plus, a little bit of what you fancy does you the world of good. By not restricting ourselves from what we enjoy, it can help us physically and psychologically. Whether you’re hankering for a sweet treat or something spicy and savoury, almonds are a versatile snack that work in partnership with a range of flavours.

This fruit and nut mix incorporates your favourite seasonal flavours – infused with warming cinnamon and brandy, honey, and fragrant citrus all combined with the crunchy goodness of almonds. It makes a great sharing snack for the coffee table or an ideal pick-me-up when you’re tackling the Christmas shop.

Festive almonds
Serves 6-8

125g dried mixed fruit
50g candied lemon and orange peel, chopped
1 tbsp brandy or orange juice
Finely grated zest and juice of 1 orange
2 tsp ground mixed spice
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp honey
200g almonds

1 Place the dried fruit and mixed peel in a bowl and pour over the brandy or orange juice. Stir until the fruit is completely coated and leave to one side to allow the flavour to develop.

2 Place the orange zest, juice, spices, and honey in a large non-stick frying pan, bring to the boil, stirring continuously, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes.

3 Add the almonds and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously until the nuts are coated in the spices and the liquid has reduced.

4 Pour the warm nuts over the fruit you have set aside, stir well and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container and enjoy whenever the festive food cravings kick in!

Visit almonds.co.uk for more recipes.

Summary

Article Name

Seasonal snacking: festive almonds

Description

Whip up this festive almond mix with all your favourite seasonal flavours. It makes a great sharing snack for the coffee table or an ideal pick-me-up when you’re tackling the Christmas shop.

Author

Hattie Parish

Publisher Name

Healthy Magazine

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