Garlic Herb Roasted Nuts

Garlic Herb Roasted Nuts are the perfect blend of crunchy, savory, and aromatic flavors. They’re roasted to golden perfection with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and a touch of olive oil for a snack that’s both healthy and addictive.

These nuts are ideal for parties, charcuterie boards, or simple afternoon cravings. The irresistible aroma of roasted herbs fills your kitchen, and each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that’s both elegant and comforting.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes simple nuts and turns them into an elevated, gourmet snack in under 30 minutes. The combination of garlic and herbs adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. They’re not only delicious but also nutrient-packed, offering healthy fats and protein.

Plus, they make fantastic homemade gifts or appetizers for gatherings. Every handful feels indulgent yet wholesome — the kind of treat that keeps you coming back for more!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s versatile, easy to make, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting guests, meal prepping snacks, or creating DIY holiday gifts, Garlic Herb Roasted Nuts are the perfect solution.

They’re a flavorful alternative to plain roasted nuts and can be customized with your favorite seasonings. The combination of toasty nuts, fresh herbs, and garlic is both simple and sophisticated — a snack that feels indulgent but fits a healthy lifestyle.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 (about ½ cup per serving)
• Calories (per serving): ~210 kcal

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-inspired
• Course: Snack, Appetizer, Party Food

Ingredients

• 3 cups mixed raw nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a sweet-savory balance)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl.
3. Add nuts and toss until evenly coated.
4. Spread nuts on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 18–20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
6. Cool completely before serving or storing.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning

• In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
• Add honey or maple syrup if you want a hint of sweetness.

Step 3: Coat the Nuts

• Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the garlic-herb mixture.

Step 4: Roast

• Spread the nuts evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
• Roast in the oven for about 18–20 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even roasting.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Remove from oven and let cool completely.
• The nuts will crisp up further as they cool.

How to Serve

Serve these Garlic Herb Roasted Nuts warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect as a snack, cocktail appetizer, or as part of a cheese and charcuterie board. You can also sprinkle them over salads for added crunch and flavor or package them in jars for thoughtful homemade gifts.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Avoid burning: Nuts can brown quickly in the last few minutes, so keep an eye on them.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme add vibrant aroma.
• Make them spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
• Cool fully before storing: This ensures they stay crisp.

Variations

• Sweet & Spicy: Add honey, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon for a bold twist.
• Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest for a bright, zesty finish.
• Parmesan Garlic: Toss the warm nuts with grated Parmesan after roasting.
• Mediterranean Mix: Add oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper for a herby Mediterranean flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to 1 month.
• Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Re-crisp in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use only one type of nut?
Yes! Almonds, cashews, or pecans work wonderfully on their own.

Q2: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Just use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Q3: How do I make them vegan?
Use olive oil and maple syrup instead of butter and honey.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use two baking sheets to ensure even roasting.

Q5: My nuts turned out soft—what happened?
They might not have cooled fully before storage. Always let them cool completely before sealing.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Roasted Nuts are a simple yet elegant snack that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The combination of crunchy nuts, savory garlic, and aromatic herbs creates an addictive bite perfect for any occasion.

Whether served at a party, gifted to loved ones, or enjoyed as a wholesome snack, these roasted nuts add a touch of gourmet flair to your table. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a jar of these savory delights on hand at all times!