I recently received this comment from a reader who subscribes to my email feed:
“I’m not interested in non-raw food recipes–as perhaps many others who view your postings. Perhaps you could, to avoid wasting such people’s time, simply note that this is a cooked food recipe, and then people can make an informed choice.”
I laughed upon reading it. Until I realized it was not a joke, it was serious. I thought of unsubscribing the poor fellow, so as not to waste his time with the more than 100 free recipes I post each year. Then I realized he could simply do that himself.
So, just to clarify things, folks. This is not a raw food blog. This is not a Paleo diet blog. This is not a low-sugar blog. This is not a grain-free blog, SCD blog, or even a gluten free blog. It is all of the above. And more. In essence, this blog is many different things to many different people. If you find it a waste of time (and you know exactly who you are) then just save your time. Unsubscribe.
For the rest of you, here’s a fun little cocktail snack that’s high in protein and quite tasty. When I made these and set them out on the kitchen table the other day, they were gone in a couple of hours. These healthy nuts are one my favorite gluten free snacks.
Smoked Paprika Almonds
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 cups whole raw almonds
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon celtic sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a 9 inch skillet over medium heat (I used my cast iron skillet, though any skillet will work)
- Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until the garlic is almost brown
- Add the smoked paprika, salt, chili and cayenne and stir to make a paste
- Add the almonds and stir constantly until they are thoroughly coated
- Continue toasting the almonds in the skillet until they are fragrant, about 5 minutes
- Remove from heat and allow the nuts to cool in the pan
- Serve
Equipment
If your garlic begins to burn at any time, be sure to remove it or the burnt garlic flavor will ruin this dish.
This delicious recipe is based on one written by Amy Culbertson. I use basically the same ingredients as she does, though instead of expensive (and delicious) Marcona almonds, I just used plain organic almonds. Otherwise (with the exception of my addition of chili powder and cayenne) this is her fantastic recipe for the most part.
Michele Little says
This sounds wonderful, and could be easily translated to a raw snack. Simply substitute soaked almonds, toss with spices and dehydrate until crispy. I’m going to give it a shot!
elana says
Lauren,
Thanks for your comment. I really like “that lady” she is a regular reader and I often frequent her blog –sometimes a little conflict isn’t a bad thing. As for raw foods guy, well that’s another story.
Elana
Lauren B says
You are so funny to publicly call out readers who are snarky with you, Elana! I remember you taking issue with that lady who didn’t like your almond bread. You tell ’em! :)
Tried the paprika almonds, and they were delish. Keep up the gorgeous blog!
elana says
Eden,
Thanks so much for your comment and for sharing your alterations to my chocolate chip cookies. Glad you are enjoying going through these recipes!
Elana
Eden says
Elana–made these tonight and loved them. They are keepers. Also tried the almond butter blondies and tested them out on my sister’s family. They gobbled them up.
I’m with everyone else. You do excellent, beautiful work on this site and you’ve been a lifesaver for me. Thank you for sharing your excellent recipes. We are lucky you do. Oh, and I can’t wait for your book!
Also, I make your yummy chocolate chip cookies often and I get rave reviews. I cut the oil to 1/3 cup because my cookies tend to go a bit runny and this modification works out perfectly for me. I bulk order my almond flour from Honeyville every few months and I also bulk order the chocolate chips every few months. These are my go-to treats when I need something for a dinner party or have to take a treat somewhere.
I’m having fun going through your recipes. Thank you!
elana says
Darren -Thank you very much. I hope you enjoy making these recipes and keep coming back for more!
Hannah -The Internet can be a strange place! I’m glad you appreciate the variety of recipes I have to offer :-)
Amy -You’re very welcome!
MsGourmet -Thanks! I’m happy this recipe could accompany your G&T.
Caroline -Wow, that first sentence of yours really hits the mark. Thanks!
Jenni -I’m so happy you have enjoyed using almond and coconut flour! Thank you for your raw adaptation suggestion. Please do let us know how it worked out if you do indeed try it. Thank you for your beautiful comment!
gaile -Those garam masala spiced nuts sound divine. I love using smoked paprika to spice things up! Thanks for dropping by.
Hayley -Thanks! :-)
Emily -I’m glad most of you appreciate the variety of recipes on my site. It makes me smile knowing that I have helped people.
Linda -Thank you for subscribing and being a part of this community.
May -Thank YOU! xoxo
Lynnette -I do try to keep the list of ingredients in each recipe to a minimum. Simplify. Satisfy. Thank you!
Alisa -It caught me a bit off guard. I had to laugh. :-)
VeggieGirl -Your comments are always amazing and much appreciated! Don’t worry, you’re welcome back anytime. I understand completely.
katie -Luckily I have kind readers such as yourself.
Karen -Yes, I agree, my recipes are pretty easy to scan. I promise you, more recipes are on the way! Thanks!
Jenny -Thank you. I hope you enjoy this recipe (and many more)!
Theresa -Wow! Thank you for your vote of confidence. It means a lot. I guess the more convenience people have the less they are thankful for what they receive, especially when it’s free! My book is slated to be published by Ten Speed Press in fall 2009. xoxo
christin -You are safe ;-) thank you for your comment!
Hänni -Let him eat cake?! You’re too funny!
Lesley -Thanks :-)
Penny -I couldn’t agree with you more. It’s up to us to eat right, it’s our responsibility. I would hope my readers understand the variety this site has to offer and take it upon themselves to sort through all the free recipes I share. Thanks!
Rebecca -I’m honored. Thank you for your comment!
Mary -That Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe is a favorite of mine. Isn’t it amazing how easy and tasty food can be even with cutting out certain foods? Have a great 2009!
Tamzin -You are so very welcome! xoxo
Kate -I really appreciate your comment! Thank you for spreading the word.
Shirley -Thanks. I loved reading The Spin on Spelt post!
Athena -Yes, very silly! Thanks for the comment.
EmmaJane -I will continue full speed!
Janet -Thank you for the heads up on the link! Your are correct and I removed it. Sorry! I had meant to link to a plain old balsamic, not a dressing.
SherryQ -What a great comment! You’re too kind. xoxo
Erica -Thanks! Your own version of my Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe sounds yummy! Great photo too!
Susan -Thank you. I love your website design and your recipes sound delicious!
april -You’re welcome. Thank you for your support!
april says
i guess it’s like that old saying “you can’t make everyone happy”.
well i absolutely love this blog and am forever thankful for you!
it had been a hard 6 months since i became allergic to gluten, but all that went away once i found this blog.
so thank you!!!!
don’t ever stop what you are doing, you are doing an amazing job!!!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Susan Jane says
Elana,
You are a gem.
Adore your enthusiasm and inspiration.
We want to see you on TV. God knows the general populace needs your advice and incorrigible enthusiasm!
Keep up the good work for you are truly appreciated.
Susan Jane
http://www.foodintolerant.com
Erica says
Keep up the great work – I love your recipes and was inspired by one of your early cookie recipes!
SherryQ says
Oh my, Elana! Some people just do not know when to take responsibility for themselves… Please do not let that person’s comment put you off from posting to your blog. I LOVE your recipes and use them often. I truly appreciate your willingness to share your talents and efforts in a public forum – very accessible, easy to read and simple to follow. Thank you, thank you, and thank you for showing me how to have gf “fun food” that I can make on my own!!! :) xoxo