Pine Nuts

These small, buttery nuts (a.k.a., pignoli) are used as a flavoring by Italian, Mexican, and Southwestern American grill jockeys. To bolster the flavor, the nuts are often toasted. To toast pine nuts, place them in a heavy, dry skillet and cook over medium heat until the nuts begin to brown, shaking the pan to ensure even cooking. This will take 3 to 5 minutes. Immediately transfer the nuts to a shallow heatproof bowl to cool.