Spiced Pecan Hostess Gift

If you've been invited to a Thanksgiving dinner, show your appreciation to your host or hostess with a thoughtful Spiced Pecan Hostess Gift.

Nutritious and delicious—nuts are a satisfying ending to a meal, work well as ingredients to a variety of dishes and almost any baked good, and can be savored by themselves as a snack. Their unique flavor adapts to a host of seasonings, including salty, spicy, sweet, or, as this recipe features them, a combination of all three.

RECIPE
Spicy Pecans
Makes 2 cups

Walnuts, almonds, and cashews may be prepared in the same way as explained here.

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon coarse salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans, and sprinkle 1/2 cup sugar over them. Sauté until pecans become golden and the sugar caramelizes.
2. Remove pecans from the pan, and toss in a bowl with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and remaining 1 tablespoon sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container.