How to Roast Raw Pecans

Pecans can be eaten raw or roasted.

Pecans taste good, and they are good for you. They contain healthy fats, protein and fiber. While it's fine to eat pecans raw, many people prefer the way pecans taste when they are roasted. You can roast pecans in the oven, in a pan on the stove top or in a microwave. Roasted pecans can be eaten as snacks or added to salads, soups or entrees. Try chopped, roasted pecans in unsweetened applesauce for a delicious and nutritious side dish.

Things You'll Need

• Shelled pecans
• Butter and salt (optional)
• Baking sheet, or frying pan or glass pie plate

Instructions

Roasting Pecans in the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Toss 2 cups of raw pecans with 1 tbsp. of melted butter and 1 tbsp. of salt, if you wish. This step is optional.

3. Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet.

4. Roast the pecans for seven to 15 minutes, until they are slightly darkened. Check the pecans often to make sure they don't burn.

Roasting Pecans on the Stove

1. Heat a frying pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Use a dry pan without any added liquid or fat.

2. Place 1/2 cup pecans in the pan. Cook until the nuts are brown, stirring and tossing frequently. Keep an eye on the pecans to make sure they don't burn.

3. Remove the pan from the heat as soon as the pecans are done, and pour the pecans onto a cool plate to keep them from cooking further.

Roasting Pecans in the Microwave

1. Spread 1/2 cup pecans evenly in a glass pie plate.

2. Microwave the pecans on high for three to four minutes. Stir once each minute.

3. Add 1/2 tsp. of butter and 1/4 tsp. of salt (optional). Microwave for one minute more.

4. Let the pecans sit for five minutes.

References

• Georgia Pecan Commission: Pecan Recipe Tips
• Epicurious: Sea Salt-Roasted Pecans
• University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension: Nuts for Nutrition
• Cooks.com: Microwave Roast Pecans