Sweet and Spicy Nuts for Salads or to Nibble on with a Cocktail!

After 4 straight weeks of snow and cold weather, this weekend was gorgeous. In the 70's and perfect weather to enjoy drinks on the deck. I made some of these nuts to go on top of a kale and spinach salad yesterday. As I was mixing us up a couple of Old Fashioneds, I thought we needed a little nibble to go with our drinks so I pulled these out. They were delicious!
These nuts are the perfect thing to throw together for unexpected company. They take under 5 minutes to make and are delicious.  This recipe is so versatile and can be used with any kind of nut and any kind of herbs to create many different results.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon butter   
• 2 teaspoons of brown sugar   
• 1 cup pecan halves- or any kid of nuts you want 
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
• 1-2 teaspoons of rosemary, thyme or any other spices that you like.  They are delicious with cumin and some chili pepper for a mexican flair or how about some oregano and rosemary for Italian night.  (optional) 

INSTRUCTIONS

1.  In a frying pan, over medium heat, add the butter and sugar, stir until butter is melted.  
2. Add the pecans and continue to stir until pecans begin to get golden brown and toasted about 1 minute. 
3. Add the cayenne and any other herbs you'd like and stir for an additional 15 seconds. 
4. Remove from heat and let the nuts cool. 
5. These are great on a salad or with drinks before dinner.