Almonds are a healthy snack and add nutritional value to all sorts of other dishes. In fact, did you know that, ounce for ounce, almonds are the most nutritionally dense nut?

Yep. A one-ounce serving (about a handful) of almonds is an excellent source of vitamin E and magnesium, and a good source of protein and fiber. A serving of almonds also contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, potassium, calcium, phosphorous and iron.

So go nuts over almonds! Add more of these tasty little nuts to your diet with these simple recipes.

SUGARED ALMONDS

1 Tbsp. egg white

2 Tbsp. granulated sugar

2 c. sliced almonds

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Whisk the egg white until foamy. Add sugar and whisk until white, but not stiff. Fold in almonds to coat. Spoon almonds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cool.

Store almonds (up to one month) in an airtight container.

ALMOND BUTTER

This is a hearty and delicious topping for bagels or muffins. You can find almond butter in grocery stores but, it’s

so easy, you’ll want to make it yourself.

1 c. roasted almonds

1/8 tsp. salt

3 Tbsp. almond or vegetable oil

Grind almonds and salt together in a food processor or blender. Add the almond or vegetable oil in a slow, steady stream. Blend until almost smooth. Makes 3/4 cup.

ALMOND CROUTONS

These almond croutons are perfect to add to a green salad just before serving, or sprinkle them on steamed veggies for added taste and crunch.

2/3 c. slivered almonds

2 tsp. olive oil

1 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp. garlic salt

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Toss slivered almonds with olive oil in a shallow baking pan. Arrange almonds in a single layer in pan. Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and garlic salt. Bake 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown, tossing once.

Suzanne Lieurance is a freelance writer and owner of the Three Angels Gourmet Co. Visit the company blog at http://www.threeangelsgourmet.blogspot.com for daily food tips, or check out the Three Angels Gourmet Co. website for additional tips and food related information at http://www.threeangelsgourmet.com.