Name: Rosemary Roasted Cashews
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.25 pounds cashew nuts ((20-oz)); 2 Tbsp coarsely chopped fresh rosemary leaves (or 2 tsp dried rosemary); 0.5 tsp cayenne; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 1 Tbsp melted butter

If you’re on the hunt for a snack that is both savory and slightly sweet, look no further than these Rosemary Roasted Cashews. Perfect for elevating your next gathering or simply for enjoying during a cozy night in, this recipe packs a punch of flavor with the aromatic essence of rosemary and just the right amount of heat from cayenne. Let’s dive into why you should make these delightful nuts today!

Why Rosemary Roasted Cashews is Worth Your Time

Making your own roasted nuts at home opens up a world of flavor possibilities. The process is surprisingly simple, and the result is far superior to anything you can find pre-packaged in the store. The combination of fresh rosemary, brown sugar, and a hint of cayenne gives these Rosemary Roasted Cashews a unique taste that is both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a nutritious snack, or simply want to impress your friends, these cashews are an irresistible choice. The best part? They can be prepared in just about 30 minutes!

What You’ll Need

1-1/4 pounds of cashew nuts (20-oz) – The star of the show.
2 Tbsp coarsely chopped fresh rosemary leaves or 2 tsp dried rosemary – For that aromatic flavor.
1/2 tsp cayenne – A little kick to balance the sweetness.
2 Tbsp brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the mix.
1 Tbsp melted butter – Helps the spices stick and adds richness.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Large mixing bowl – For tossing the nuts with the seasoning.
Baking sheet – A sturdy surface for roasting the nuts.
Parchment paper – Optional, but helps with easy cleanup.
Spatula – For mixing and spreading the cashews evenly.
Oven – Essential for roasting! Preheat that beauty.

Step-by-Step: Rosemary Roasted Cashews

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cashews will roast evenly and develop that beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Cashews

In a large mixing bowl, add the 1-1/4 pounds of cashew nuts. These will be the canvas for all the delicious flavors to come!

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

In a separate bowl, combine the coarsely chopped rosemary, cayenne, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir well until the mixture is evenly blended.

Step 4: Coat the Cashews

Pour the seasoning mixture over the cashews. Using a spatula, gently toss the nuts until they are fully coated in the delicious mixture. Make sure every cashew is covered for maximum flavor!

Step 5: Spread on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then spread the seasoned cashews in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly without steaming.

Step 6: Roast in the Oven

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cashews for about 15-20 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even roasting. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; they should be golden brown and fragrant when done.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once roasted, remove the cashews from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet. They will continue to harden as they cool. Then, transfer them to a serving bowl or an airtight container. Enjoy your homemade Rosemary Roasted Cashews!

Budget & Availability Swaps

Cashews: Feel free to substitute with almonds or pecans if you prefer.
Fresh Rosemary: If fresh rosemary is hard to find, dried rosemary will suffice, just use less.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple sugar can be used for a different flavor profile.
Butter: Substitute with coconut oil or olive oil for a dairy-free version.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your Rosemary Roasted Cashews are not as flavorful as you expected, try the following:

Ensure your spices are fresh! Older spices can lose their potency.
Don’t skip the stirring step while roasting; it helps to evenly distribute the heat and flavors.
If they burn, lower the temperature next time and keep a closer eye on them.

Shelf Life & Storage

Your delicious Rosemary Roasted Cashews can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a resealable bag. Just make sure to thaw them completely before snacking to enjoy the best texture!

Helpful Q&A

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Absolutely! Almonds, pecans, or walnuts can all be delicious substitutes. Just adjust the roasting time based on the nut you choose, as some may cook faster than others.

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

Dried rosemary works perfectly in this recipe. Use about 2 teaspoons instead of the fresh leaves. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste.

Can I make these cashews spicy?

Yes! If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne or even add a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick. Just be careful not to overpower the other flavors.

What is the best way to serve these cashews?

These Rosemary Roasted Cashews make a great appetizer on their own or as part of a charcuterie board. They also pair wonderfully with cocktails or can be tossed in salads for an added crunch!

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients and gear, and armed yourself with knowledge, it’s time to get cooking! Create a batch of these aromatic and flavorful Rosemary Roasted Cashews, and impress yourself and others with this delightful snack. Perfect for sharing, or simply enjoying by yourself, you won’t regret making this easy yet delicious recipe.

Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy cashews or just want to add a gourmet touch to your snack table, these Rosemary Roasted Cashews are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!