10 Healthy Almond Recipes + More Delicious Ways to Enjoy Almonds (2024)

Got almonds? You’ll love these healthy almond recipes + 10 delicious tips for using almonds in your cooking!

Disclosure: The Almond Board of California generously provided me with a gift pack of almond products to taste. I was not compensated to write this post, and, as usual, opinions are 100% my own. Thank you for supporting the products and brands I use and love.

Almonds are an incredibly versatile nut & so nutritious too!

Unless you have a nut allergy, most of you have probably used almonds in one form or another in your cooking.

Almond milk (make this super easy almond milk recipe!) has become incredibly popular. And, if you follow a gluten free diet like I do, you’ve probably baked with almond flour. Of course, we can’t leave out rich and creamy almond butter. Or, nutty almond oil.

There’s even almond pulp-the fiber rich leftovers from homemade almond milk. I’ve yet to create any of my own almond recipes with leftover pulp, YET, but if you’re looking for ideas (and ways to cut back on food waste) here are a few I’d love to try:

Healthy Almond Recipes (Savory & Sweet) You’ll Love!

Easy Lentil Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Simple ingredients, easy to make, and super healthy to boot, you’ll love everything about this lovely lentil, kale, cherry tomato, and almond salad with lemon vinaigrette!

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Strawberry Arugula Salad w/ Strawberry Salad Dressing

Bursting with nourishing springtime ingredients, this Strawberry Arugula Salad with Chicken, Goat Cheese, Almonds, and Creamy Strawberry Salad Dressing is super easy to make, and will satisfy all your salad cravings.

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Low FODMAP Kale Salad with Carrots, Almonds & Citrus Vinaigrette

This refreshing low FODMAP kale salad will help you add kale to your menu more often. Not only is it a nutritious salad but it also keeps for days in the refrigerator. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it for several lunches throughout the week.

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Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe with Tart Cherry Quinoa Pilaf

This gluten-free, vegan stuffed acorn squash recipe is packed with fall flavors and get's rave reviews from my plant-based and meat-eaters alike! ! It's filled with delicious pumpkin seed, spinach, and tart cherry quinoa pilaf. Serve it as a wholesome side dish, a meatless main course, or a festive accompaniment at your next holiday gathering.

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Chai Spice Pumpkin Seed Almond Muesli

This easy and nutritious gluten free muesli with chai spices, almonds, and pumpkin seeds, is a delicious way to start the day!

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Cinnamon Toast Gluten Free Waffles Waffles w/ Spiced Pomegranate Orange Syrup + Toasted Almonds

These Cinnamon Toast Gluten Free Waffles with Spiced Pomegranate Orange Sauce and Toasted Almonds are a festive and delicious way to start the day!

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Mexican Chocolate Banana Shake

This creamy, dreamy, delicious Mexican Chocolate Banana Shakeis just what you need when you’re craving something luscious, chocolatey,AND nutritious!

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Tropical Green Flaxseed Smoothie

This tropical flaxseed smoothie is the quintessential breakfast, lunch, or summertime snack. It’s light, refreshing, and a great way to boost hydration and sneak in extra nutrition with minimal effort. Better yet, no need to heat up your kitchen!

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Gluten Free Chocolate Cake with Brown Sugar Icing

This delicious gluten free, grain free chocolate cake will wow your guests! It's moist, chocolaty, and delicious!

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Easy Chocolate Spiced Pumpkin Truffles with Almonds

These Easy Chocolate Spiced Pumpkin Truffles with Almonds and Dark Chocolate are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and perfect for a healthy fall treat! Gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo, they are easy to adapt for vegan and low FODMAP diets too!

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10 HEALTHY & DELICIOUS WAYS TO ENJOY ALMONDS!

  1. Substitute almonds/almond meal for bread crumbs when coating meat, veggies, or other foods. My family and I LOVE this almond meal coated Low Carb Baked Chicken Stuffed with Pesto and Cheese from Kalyns Kitchen. SO good!
  2. Add almond butter to your favorite hot breakfast cereal for a burst of flavor plus protein. You can also give a super boost of protein to your oatmeal or smoothie with Noosh Unsweetened Almond Protein Powder. I love this stuff!
  3. Use almond flour to create gluten-free alternatives for favorite cakes and muffins. See the recipe for my Gluten Free Chocolate Cake w/ Brown Sugar Almond Icing below. OMG, swoon!!!
  4. Ditch the bread crumbs some time and use coarsely ground almonds for a delicious gluten-free casserole topping
  5. 3 words. DIY Almond Milk! While store bought options have improved quite a bit, and you can even find some brands without any gums or fillers, it’s pretty darn easy to make your own almond milk. Try this EASY 1-Minute Almond Milk Recipe and let me know what you think!
  6. Substitute almond milk for regular milk in mashed potatoes for a creamy dairy-free dish.
  7. Add almonds to whole grain recipes to bring out the nutty flavor of the grain. Like in this Cranberry Orange Quinoa Pudding w/ Toasted Almonds. So tasty for the holidays!
  8. Got almond pulp from your homemade almond milk? Try it as a gluten-free thickening agent in soups or stews! And, see above, for more delicious ways to use up your almond pulp.
  9. Try almond flour in your favorite cookie recipe or baked good to produce an even chewier texture. I love this . Trust me, you will love it!
  10. Roasted almonds! Almonds + Your favorite sweet or savory spices thrown into a slow cooker makes for a delicious homemade snack mix!

Let’s Chat!

What are your favorite almond recipes? Do you bake with almond flour? Have you made anything with almond pulp before? Do share!

EA Stewart

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist

EA Stewart, MBA, RD is an integrative registered dietitian specializing in wellness nutrition, digestive health, autoimmune disease, brain health, and vibrant aging. She creates easy, plant-forward gluten-free recipes for a wide variety of diets including low FODMAP, Mediterranean, and more.

10 Healthy Almond Recipes + More Delicious Ways to Enjoy Almonds (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest way to eat almonds? ›

The Perfect Combination: Soaked and Unpeeled Almonds

For those seeking the ultimate nutritional benefits, combining the advantages of soaked and unpeeled almonds is the way to go. By soaking unpeeled almonds overnight, you unlock their full nutrient potential while enjoying the goodness of both the skin and the nut.

What happens if I eat almonds every day? ›

Protect your heart health: According to the reports of FDA, around 1.5 ounces of almonds every day can reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Many of the nutrients present in almonds help in contributing to heart health. Magnesium in almonds can inhibit hypertension and heart attacks.

How many almonds should you eat a day? ›

When compared ounce for ounce, almonds are the tree nut highest in protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin and niacin. Just remember 1-2-3. 1 ounce of almonds, or about 23 almond nuts, is the ideal daily portion recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Why do I feel good after eating almonds? ›

The protein and fiber in the nuts helps you feel full faster, so you can better control your calorie intake while still satisfying your hunger. The vitamin E, potassium, and calcium in almonds could help to lower your blood pressure, which helps protect against heart disease.

What can I do with a large amount of almonds? ›

Here are a few unique ways to enjoy almonds in the kitchen.
  1. Almond Milk. The almond milk is an excellent plant-based milk option. ...
  2. Cheese. Almonds can also be used to make cheese that tastes extremely similar to dairy-based cheese. ...
  3. Smoothies. ...
  4. Snack. ...
  5. Sauce or Spread. ...
  6. Bars. ...
  7. Oatmeal. ...
  8. Dessert.

What does eating raw almonds do to your body? ›

The health benefits of almonds include lower blood sugar levels, reduced blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels. They can also reduce hunger and promote weight loss. Overall, almonds are as close to perfect as a food can get, with some considerations.

What is the best time to eat almonds? ›

Almonds. One of the healthiest dry fruits, almonds are rich in essential nutrients like fibre, protein, Vitamin E, riboflavin, magnesium, etc. To reap the health benefits of almonds, it's advised to consume them in the morning. Just soak a fist of almonds at night and have them in the morning.

What is the healthiest nut to eat? ›

Most nuts appear to be generally healthy. But some may have more heart-healthy nutrients than others. For example, walnuts contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Almonds, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts and pecans also appear to be quite heart healthy.

Are there any side effects of eating almonds? ›

Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, and consuming them as part of a balanced diet is beneficial. However, one should consume them in reasonable amounts as an overdose can cause vitamin E toxicity. It can cause adverse health effects like stomach cramps, diarrhea, and other digestive problems.

Are almonds inflammatory? ›

“They are also a good source of antioxidant vitamin E.” Research suggests the monounsaturated fats from an almond-rich diet lower some markers of inflammation, including CRP.

What to eat with almonds? ›

Top 5 Ways to Use Almonds
  • Sliver Almonds Over Fruit. ...
  • Stir Almonds into Your Favorite Baked Goods. ...
  • Mix Almonds into a Delicious Smoothie. ...
  • Slather on the Almond Butter. ...
  • Whip into a Savory Dip or Cream.
Oct 5, 2021

Is it better to eat almonds with skin or without? ›

You can safely eat almonds with skin or without. Eating almonds that have been soaked but not peeled may be healthier, but it isn't more nutrient-dense than doing so raw. Almonds with skin or without both have health benefits. Soaking almonds every day is an excellent way to nourish yourself.

Which almonds are the healthiest? ›

Mamra almonds are considered to be one of the healthiest types of almonds in the world. These almonds are grown in Iran and have been a part of the country's traditional cuisine for centuries.

Which is better, almonds or pistachios? ›

If your goal is to improve immune function or boost bone or digestive health, opt for almonds. Following the keto diet or hoping for better heart or brain health or a little mood boost? Walnuts should be your nut of choice. For those looking to lose weight or for the biggest antioxidant boost, reach for pistachios.

Why do I get sleepy after eating almonds? ›

Almonds help the body make GABA, which helps promote calmness, reduces anxiety, stabilizes blood pressure and promotes restful sleep. Almonds are also a good source of melatonin, helping your body's internal clock work right so your body knows when it is time to sleep.

Are almonds good for the colon? ›

Tree nuts like almonds, walnuts, cashews, hazelnuts, and pistachios are best known for their beneficial fat and protein content. But they also help keep your colon healthy and reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Can you make your own almond meal? ›

Making homemade almond meal is so easy! It requires just 1 ingredient, 1 blender, and 5 minutes. Simply add raw almonds (with skin on) to a blender and blitz until a fine, powdery flour is achieved.

Why must I discard the water soaked almonds? ›

Hence, once soaked one must discard the water as these antinutrients are dissolved in the water. Furthermore, soaking almonds make them soft and easier to chew and digest, especially for children and older people.

What to do with expired almonds? ›

They may lose some of their oils and become dry but generally still good to use. Your ground almonds aren't that old and as long as they have been stored in a dry place, you can use them. Use up what you've got for home treats like Bakewell tarts, in cakes and homemade marzipan.

How to know if almond is expired? ›

In case there is bitterness in the taste, then it is best to discard the almonds as it indicates the presence of certain chemicals like phytic acid, which is a natural toxin in the outer layer of almonds High-quality almonds have a fresh and nutty aroma. If the almonds smell musty or rancid, it could indicate spoilage.

What if I eat 20 almonds a day? ›

It is generally safe to eat more than 20 almonds a day, as long as you are not allergic to nuts. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of eating too many almonds, such as: Constipation: Almonds are a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you regular.

Can dogs eat almonds? ›

Although almonds are not directly poisonous to dogs they are not advised. The canine system is not designed to process nuts and they can cause gastrointestinal distress, obesity, and pancreatitis.

Are almonds healthier raw or cooked? ›

Certain nuts, like almonds and hazelnuts, are often better consumed roasted as the process can help in the absorption of some nutrients. Roasting can also aid in breaking down the phytic acid, a form of antinutrient, found in these nuts,” shared Sisodia.

Is it better to eat almonds raw or soaked in water? ›

"Soaked almonds and walnuts are healthier than having them raw, because the process of soaking makes them more digestible and more easily absorbed in the body. So, all the nutrients and vitamins that they have, almost doubled up in the bio availability of those vitamins, when they are consumed soaked.

How to consume almonds for weight loss? ›

Snacking: Eat a handful of raw or roasted almonds as a healthy snack. Carrying a snack box filled with 30g of almonds and consuming as a snack at work/between lectures or meetings /traveling can make a great difference in an individual's health.

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