Toasting Nuts

A friend called today, asking what's the best way to toast nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, etc.), and if it's even necessary.  Toasting nuts before using them in a recipe intensifies their flavor.  You can either toast them in the oven or in a skillet on the stove top.  I usually do them in the oven:  simply spread the nuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes or until lightly toasted.  Just be careful - they can burn quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them!  If you want to do them on the stove top, toast them in a skillet on medium-high heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. 

Yum!