Instructions

1. Add a chunk of unsalted butter to a large skillet; about 2 tablespoons is usually enough, depending on the quantity of slivered almonds you plan to toast. Use enough butter to coat the bottom of the pan and your almonds.

2. Place the skillet over medium-high heat until the butter melts, which takes about a minute. Don't use high heat, because slivered almonds are thin and burn easily.

3. Pour the slivered almonds into the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium. Toss and flip the almond pieces frequently with a spatula.

4. Sprinkle on any additional seasonings. For example, if you're toasting slivered almonds for a pie, some cinnamon or nutmeg work nicely; a touch of chili powder or paprika on slivered almonds enhances the flavor of couscous or a green bean dish. Stir the slivered almonds in butter well after you add in the seasonings to coat them thoroughly.

5. Monitor your skillet closely. Slivered almonds toast fully in a matter of minutes and quickly go from properly done to burnt. Transfer the toasted nuts onto a plate to drain and cool once they develop a golden-brown color and a crunch.