With just the right amount of spice and salt to keep you snacking, these nuts by NOLA chef Donald Link (Cochon, Herbsaint) are an ideal companion for a Vieux Carré, or toss some atop a green salad.

Game plan: If you prefer other nuts over pecans, feel free to substitute them in this recipe.

This recipe was featured as part of our Mardi Gras Recipes photo gallery.Adapted from “Real Cajun: Rustic Home Cooking from Donald Link’s Louisiana” by Donald Link

  • Yields: 4 servings
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Total: 15 mins
  • Active: Under 5 mins

Ingredients (6)

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 pound whole, raw pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Place all ingredients except the butter and nuts in a large bowl and stir to combine. Add the melted butter and stir until incorporated. Add the nuts and stir until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, stirring once, until golden brown and fragrant. Let cool on the baking sheet.

Recipe provided by Chef Donald Link, author of Real Cajun: Rustic Home Cooking from Donald Link’s Louisiana.