Roasting pecans is a delicious and easy way to enjoy these nutritious nuts. Pecans are not only tasty but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. When roasted, their flavors are enhanced, making them perfect for snacking or adding to various dishes. Follow these 12 simple steps to roast pecans to perfection.

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating the oven to the right temperature is crucial for even roasting of the pecans.

2. Choose fresh pecans: For the best taste, select fresh and high-quality pecans. Pecans should be plump, uniform in size, and have a rich brown color.

3. Measure the quantity: Decide how many pecans you want to roast and measure them accordingly.

4. Prepare a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

5. Rinse the pecans: Place the pecans in a colander and rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt and debris. This step also helps spread salt or any other seasoning you choose to use.

6. Drain and dry: Allow the rinsed pecans to drain properly and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

7. Season (optional): If you prefer seasoned roasted pecans, toss them in a bowl with salt, spices, or herbs of your choice.

8. Arrange pecans on the baking sheet: Spread the seasoned or unseasoned pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is some space between each nut for even roasting.

9. Place in the preheated oven: Place the baking sheet with pecans in the middle rack of your preheated oven.

10. Roast for 10-15 minutes: Roast the pecans for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and aromatic. It’s crucial to keep an eye on them as they can burn easily.

11. Stir pecans occasionally: To ensure even roasting, stir the pecans every 4-5 minutes during the roasting process.

12. Remove and cool: Once the pecans are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool down.

Enjoy your roasted pecans as a healthy snack, on top of salads, in baked goods, or as a tasty addition to your favorite dishes. Store any leftover roasted pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.