Usually by the time this time of year swings around, I'm totally sick of cookies. As much as I love pizzelles, chocolate/peppermint crinkles, and Italian wedding cookies... I'm just done. (cookies are everywhere in December!!) This spicy/salty treat is one of my favorite snacks during the holidays and the baking process leaves your home smelling like one of those little vendors who sell nuts on the streets of Boston. Ah, yum.

I found this recipe a few years ago when I was watching Giada on The Food Network. I usually double or triple the recipe so that I have enough to package up into little mason jars or gift bags to family, friends, and co-workers. It's always a big hit! (Plus, It's healthy!)

It's a simple mash up of herbs, spice, extra virgin, salt, & sugar (details below). I love that chickpeas are involved because they add a little chewiness to the mix.

1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained, rinsed and dried
4 tablespoons total olive oil
1 cup shelled raw pistachios
1 cup raw almonds (blanched or not)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaf
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leave
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

This batch was divided up into little gift bags for my co-workers and also into pretty little glass bowls throughout my condo for my small cocktail party on Saturday night.

This mixture serves great as a host/hostess gift, as a quick appetizer to whip up for a holiday party, or as previously mentioned... for coworkers!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I have two parties to put on and then I'm on vacation for a week. (Yes, two parties, I don't know who I think I am) How are you all spending the weekend?!

PS: Speaking of salty nuts... if you haven't re-watched this skit in a while... you're welcome & enjoy: