Herbed Pecans
Herbed Pecans are a savory snack featuring crunchy pecan halves coated with a flavorful mix of butter, worcestershire, spices, and hot sauce. Perfect for parties or as a gift, these pecans offer a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that appeal to snack lovers and nuts enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy skillet, melt the butter or margarine.
- Stir in worcestershire sauce, salt, cinnamon, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and bottled hot pepper sauce.
- Toss the pecan halves in the mixture until evenly coated.
- Place the coated pecans in a single layer on a 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1 inch baking pan.
- Bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring often until nuts are brown and crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using unsalted butter or a flavored oil, such as olive oil. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. You can adjust the heat by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your preference. Ensure the pecans are fresh for the best taste and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These herbed pecans make a delightful snack on their own or can be sprinkled over salads for an added crunch. They pair beautifully with dishes like the Fiesta Banana Cake or can be enjoyed as a topping for creamy cheeses during a charcuterie board. Consider serving them at parties or as a gift for nut lovers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover herbed pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Pecans contains roughly 46 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 902mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Each nut will provide a different flavor profile, but the seasoning mix will complement any nut variety. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different nuts may roast at different rates.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
To adjust the spice level, you can increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your taste. For a milder option, omit the cayenne altogether and instead add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smokey flavor without the heat.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these herbed pecans up to a week in advance. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. They make for a great snack or addition to any appetizer spread, allowing you to enjoy them without last-minute cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).