Negroni-glazed Mixed Nuts

These Negroni-glazed mixed nuts are inspired by the classic cocktail—sweet, citrusy, and just a little bit boozy. They’re the ultimate aperitivo snack, perfect for sharing with friends over a cold drink.

These Negroni-glazed nuts are packed with healthy fats and protein from nuts, but do contain sugar and alcohol, so enjoy as an occasional treat alongside your favourite aperitif.

Ingredients

• 30ml Campari
• 20ml gin (London Dry is best)
• 20ml sweet vermouth
• 1 tbsp light brown sugar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp finely grated orange zest
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 250g mixed raw unsalted nuts (such as almonds, cashews, hazelnuts)

Method

1. Make the Negroni Glaze
   1. Combine Campari, gin, sweet vermouth, brown sugar, and olive oil in a small saucepan.
   2. Heat gently over low heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly. Do not boil.
   3. Remove from the heat and stir in the orange zest and sea salt.
2. Coat the Nuts
   1. Place the mixed nuts in a mixing bowl.
   2. Pour the warm Negroni glaze over the nuts and stir well to coat thoroughly.
3. Air Fry
   1. Line the air fryer basket with baking paper or a silicone liner.
   2. Spread the nuts in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary).
   3. Air fry at 150°C for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Keep an eye on them in the final minutes as the glaze can caramelise quickly.
4. Cool and Store
   1. Once golden and aromatic, tip the nuts onto a clean sheet of baking paper and leave to cool completely. The glaze will firm up as the nuts cool.
   2. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Tip: These Negroni-glazed mixed nuts are perfect for serving with cocktails or as a party snack. Try different nut blends for variety!

What can you serve with this

1. Negroni cocktails – Echo the flavours and complete the aperitivo vibe.
2. Olives – Their briny tang balances the sweet, citrusy nuts.
3. Crisp breadsticks – Add crunch and soak up the glaze.
4. Charcuterie board – Nuts add texture and contrast to meats and cheeses.
5. Fresh orange slices – Highlight the citrus in the glaze.

FAQs for Negroni-glazed mixed nuts

• Can I make Negroni-glazed nuts without an air fryer? – Yes, bake on a lined tray at 150°C (fan) for 10–12 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Which nuts work best? – Almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts are classic, but pecans and walnuts work too.
• Is the alcohol cooked off? – Most evaporates during cooking, but trace amounts may remain.
• How long do they keep? – Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Can I make them ahead? – Absolutely, they’re great for prepping in advance for parties.
• How do I stop the glaze from burning? – Keep the temperature low and watch closely in the final minutes.
• Are these nuts gluten-free? – Yes, as long as your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Can I make a non-alcoholic version? – Swap the spirits for orange juice and a dash of bitters for a mocktail twist.
• Can I double the recipe? – Yes, but cook in batches for even glazing.
• What drinks pair well? – Negronis, Prosecco, or a citrusy white wine all work beautifully.

Nutri-score Health Check

Negroni-glazed mixed nuts score a Nutri-Score of C. Nuts provide healthy fats and protein, but sugar and alcohol in the glaze mean they’re best enjoyed occasionally.

Positive Factors

• Mixed nuts offer fibre, protein, and healthy fats.
• Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat.

Negative Factors

• Sugar and alcohol add calories and should be consumed in moderation.
• Salt can contribute to sodium intake.

Nutri-Score calculated from the recipe ingredients and is only a guide.