Not only are almonds full of healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, but almonds make the perfect on-the-go snack, recipe booster, and skin-loving ingredient.
Need more convincing? Here are ten uses for whole almonds that transform the cute little nut into serious deliciousness.
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1. Almond Flour
Grinding almonds into a fine consistency creates almond flour, a Paleo-friendly baking flour that makes delicious muffins, zucchini bread, chicken breading, and so much more. Almond flour is also rich in vitamin E, potassium, fiber, and healthy fats.
2. Raw Almond Parmesan Cheese
One of the most delicious uses for whole almonds is in raw Parmesan cheese. Add a half cup of raw almonds to a food processor with a half cup of nutritional yeast, and a pinch each of sea salt, oregano, black pepper, and basil. Pulse almonds until a fine, Parmesan cheese-like consistency. This vegan cheese is amazing sprinkled over pasta, salad, and roasted vegetables.
3. Almond Body Scrub
Although you technically can’t eat this almond scrub, it’s nourishing just the same. Bonus: This simple almond body scrub recipe is a great way to use leftover almond pulp after making homemade almond milk. Simply mix one cup of almond pulp with three tablespoons of coconut oil and a few drops of essential oils. Scrub away dry, flaky skin and smell oh so good while doing so.
4. Almond Butter
One of the best uses for whole almonds is creamy (or crunchy) almond butter. Almond butter is perfect on oatmeal, smeared on toast, and spread on dark chocolate for the perfect, indulgent treat. Make your own or buy a minimally processed jar to have on hand for all of the things.
5. Almond Joy Bars
Make this homemade almond joy recipe with whole almonds, shredded coconut flakes, coconut oil, and dark chocolate for a sweet, yet healthy treat way better than any store-bought version.
6. Almond Milk
One of the creamiest and frothiest nondairy milks around is almond milk. Make your own almond milk with raw almonds, water, and a pinch of salt – nothing else. Customize your almond milk with spices like cinnamon or cardamom and a sweetener like maple syrup or dates, if you’d like. We love almond milk in coffee and with homemade granola for the dreamiest breakfast.
7. Almond Smoothies
Blend a handful of raw almonds into your morning smoothie for a nutrient-packed, creamy, and delicious sip filled with healthy fats and fiber. Note: A high-power blender like a Vitamix works best for this job.
8. Almond Sauce or Salad Dressing
Add whole almonds to your high-speed blender to make delicious sauces and salad dressings for a unique flavor and texture. Almonds are a staple in romesco sauce and totally delicious in spicy almond sauces to pour over stir-fry, too. Or try blending almonds with olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, coconut aminos, and tahini for a unique dressing packed with goodness.
9. Vegan Espresso Energy Balls Recipe with Coconut and Almond
These little bites of heaven are full of almond butter, oats, cacao powder, coconut, cinnamon, espresso powder, and more. These espresso energy balls make for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or pre-workout snack.
10. Almond Oatmeal
Add chopped almonds to oatmeal, overnight oats, or baked oatmeal for a satisfyingly crunchy texture and sweet taste. Almonds will aid in balancing blood sugar and will keep you feeling satiated all morning long.
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