“Chique” Recipe: It’s all about Nuts
Each holiday season I try to think of a creative present for the boys’ teachers; a gift of gratitude that is unique, appropriate and a bit organic that won’t break the bank. Last year, I made a big batch of homemade sauteed pecans. They were such a hit I decided to make it a tradition and do a repeat performance!
I had dozens of recycled glass jars in my cupboard so all I needed was a generous supply of organic pecans, butter and sea salt. The recipe is my mom’s old standby and she always has tons of them on hand in the freezer for when guests arrive. The taste is so distinctive you would think the preparation would be difficult but it’s simple.
I filled up the recycled jars and topped them with a festive decoration. I am not one for traditional green and red Christmas wrap, so I lean towards more natural organic designs. Recently, saw a blog post on MomFilter that posted about Trader Joe’s holiday bags printed with gift tags that you cut out. Brilliant idea! I haven’t used a paper bag in years because my trunk is filled with reusable cloth bags but today I broke my own rule so I could get some festive Trader Joe’s brown bags. Bought some felt and raffia bows and we were ready to wrap. The boys cut out the labels, signed their names and we assembled the gifts together.
I love a homemade gift that is “Chique”, thoughtful, original and delicious. I hope the teachers do too!
Sauted Pecans
3 cups whole pecans
3 tablespoons butter
Sea Salt
Depending on how big a batch you want to make, take a tablespoon of butter per cup of pecans. Melt butter in a saute pan, toss in pecans and on medium heat and saute until browned about 5 minutes or so. Be careful not to burn the butter. You will know they are almost finished as the nutty aroma fills the room. Drain on paper towel and immediately sprinkle with sea salt. Today I tried Himalayan Pink Sea Salt, delicious and gorgeous in color! I always make a gigantic batch and freeze, so I always have them handy. Just warm them up in the microwave for a minute and they are ready to serve. Enjoy, they are always a big hit!