#marconaalmonds

You can eat these apricots with goat cheese, basil, and marcona almonds as a simple but fancy keto-friendly snack or appetizer. The base is made of sweet and juicy ripe apricots. The goat cheese, fresh basil, and crunchy Marcona almonds add different flavors and textures. It's great for parties or just as a light, refreshing treat.

Ingredients: 6 ripe apricots, halved and pitted. 1/4 cup soft goat cheese. 6 fresh basil leaves. 12 Marcona almonds. Honey optional, for drizzling.

Instructions: Assemble the apricots on a serving platter or on plates for each person. Put a small amount of soft goat cheese on each half of an apricot using a small spoon or knife. Cut up the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them on top of the goat cheese. Put two Marcona almonds on top of each half of an apricot. If you want to make the apricots even sweeter, you can drizzle a little honey over them. Serve right away and enjoy this tasty snack or appetizer that is keto-friendly! This dish is sure to impress with its creamy goat cheese, fragrant basil, and crunchy Marcona almonds.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

This classic wine and food pairing with El Sospechoso lets you taste the rich flavors of Spain. The strong fruity notes in the wine go well with the smooth Manchego cheese, the salty Jamn Ibrico, and the crunchy Marcona almonds, making for a delicious meal.

Ingredients: 1 bottle of El Sospechoso wine. 200g Manchego cheese, sliced. 200g Jamn ibrico, thinly sliced. 100g Marcona almonds. 1 baguette, sliced and toasted.

Instructions: Arrange the sliced Manchego cheese, Jamn ibrico, Marcona almonds, and toasted baguette on a serving platter. Open the bottle of El Sospechoso wine and let it breathe for 15 minutes. Serve the wine alongside the platter of cheese, ham, almonds, and baguette slices.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

flavor, and buttery finish, Marcona almonds offer a delightful twist on the traditional almond varieties we’re used to in the United States. But what makes them so unique, and why are they so popular among chefs and food lovers?

A Brief History of Marcona Almonds

Originating from Spain, Marcona almonds are primarily grown in the coastal regions of the country, particularly in Valencia. These almonds have been cultivated for centuries, with a history that traces back to ancient Mediterranean diets. Spain remains the largest producer of Marcona almonds today, exporting these prized nuts worldwide.

What Makes Marcona Almonds Different?

Unlike the classic California almond, which is typically harder and crunchier, Marcona almonds are:

Shorter and rounder in shape

Sweeter and more delicate in flavor

Smoother in texture with a buttery finish

They are often blanched to remove the skin, then lightly fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. This gives them a delicious, slightly salty, and savory taste that pairs well with cheeses, olives, and even sweet fruits like figs or dates.

Health Benefits of Marcona Almonds

Just like other almonds, Marcona almonds pack a punch when it comes to nutrition. Here are some of their health benefits:

Rich in healthy fats: Marcona almonds contain monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.

High in protein: They provide a good source of plant-based protein, making them a valuable addition to vegetarian and vegan diets.

Loaded with vitamins and minerals: They are rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, which help boost immunity, promote skin health, and reduce inflammation.

How to Enjoy Marcona Almonds

Marcona almonds are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

As a snack: Eat them straight out of the bag for a satisfying, savory bite.

With cheese boards: Pair them with Manchego cheese, olives, and cured meats for a classic Spanish tapas-style experience.

In salads: Add them to mixed green salads or grain bowls for a touch of crunch and a burst of flavor.

With desserts: Their sweet, nutty flavor complements desserts like dark chocolate bark or honey-drizzled cakes.

Where to Buy Marcona Almonds

Marcona almonds can be found in gourmet grocery stores, online specialty retailers, and even some larger supermarkets. They may be slightly more expensive than regular almonds, but their rich flavor and unique texture make them worth the splurge.

Final Thoughts: Are Marcona Almonds Worth the Hype?