Ingredients:
- 3 cups (450g) raw, unsalted almonds
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5g) flaky sea salt
- 1 tablespoon (3g) fresh rosemary, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon (1g) smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the raw almonds with the extra virgin olive oil until every nut has a light, glistening sheen.
- Sprinkle the finely minced rosemary and smoked paprika over the nuts, tossing thoroughly to ensure the aromatics cling to the oil coating.
- Spread the almonds in a single layer on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Ensure the nuts are not crowded to allow for proper airflow and even roasting.
- Slide the baking sheet onto the center rack of the oven. Bake for 15 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until the almonds reach a deep mahogany color and release a nutty aroma.
- Remove the tray from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the flaky sea salt while the oil is still warm.
- Allow the almonds to rest on the tray for at least 20 minutes. This cooling phase is critical for the almonds to transition from soft to a shattering, crisp texture.