5 Simple Savory Almond Recipes You'll Love

Savory almonds bring a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to any meal, transforming ordinary dishes into culinary delights. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, incorporating almonds into your savory recipes can elevate your cooking game. Here are five simple yet scrumptious almond recipes you'll want to try:

1. Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Almond-crusted chicken tenders are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a healthier alternative to traditional breaded tenders.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup almonds (sliced or crushed)
• ¹⁄₂ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, pulse almonds until finely chopped. Mix with panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, then coat with the almond-panko mixture.
4. Place on the baking sheet, spray with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

⭐ Note: For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the almond mixture!

2. Almond and Spinach Pesto

Transform your traditional pesto with the addition of almonds for a nutty twist on the classic sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ¹⁄₂ cup almonds (toasted)
• ¹⁄₂ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¹⁄₃ cup olive oil
• Juice from half a lemon
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Toast almonds in a dry pan until they’re fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. In a food processor, combine spinach, almonds, cheese, and garlic. Pulse until well chopped.
3. Gradually add olive oil while processing to reach the desired consistency. Add lemon juice and salt.

🌟 Note: This pesto is fantastic not only on pasta but also as a spread for sandwiches or a dip for veggies!

3. Almond Rice Pilaf

An aromatic rice dish infused with almonds adds a delightful nutty taste, perfect for any dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• ¹⁄₄ cup almonds (sliced)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¹⁄₂ tsp turmeric
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
2. Add rice and almonds, stir for a couple of minutes.
3. Pour in broth, add turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes.
4. Fluff with a fork before serving.

✨ Note: Pair this rice pilaf with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

4. Almond Butter Tofu Stir Fry

Almond butter adds depth to a quick and delicious tofu stir fry.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 3 tbsp almond butter
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together almond butter, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
2. In a hot wok or pan, stir fry tofu until golden, then set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, sauté garlic with vegetables until tender. Return tofu to pan.
4. Pour the almond butter sauce over the tofu and vegetables, stir fry for another couple of minutes until everything is coated.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

🌿 Note: This dish is perfect for those looking to incorporate plant-based protein into their diet.

5. Almond Crusted Salmon

A luxurious yet easy way to enjoy salmon with a crunchy almond topping.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• ¹⁄₂ cup almonds (finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp dried dill
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Mix mustard, honey, lemon zest, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Brush the salmon fillets with this mixture, then press almonds onto the top.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Each of these recipes demonstrates the versatility of almonds in savory dishes, providing both texture and flavor that can elevate your cooking. From the crispy chicken tenders to the elegant almond-crusted salmon, almonds can turn simple meals into gourmet experiences.

As you explore these recipes, you'll discover how almonds can enhance your dishes, adding not just flavor but also a nutritional boost. Incorporate almonds into your diet for their healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making your meals not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you're looking to impress guests or just add a little something extra to your daily meals, these almond recipes are sure to become favorites.