Elizabeth David’s recipe for irresistible, roasted almonds is already given but here is a quick alternative, great to offer to unexpected guests.

Place a handful or two of cashews into an oven proof dish and add a knob of butter. Put into a hot oven (around 190°C). After just a minute, take out of the oven and mix the cashews around so they become coated in the melted butter. Return to the oven and roast for about six minutes more or until the nuts are a good caramel colour.

Turn onto kitchen paper and sprinkle well with salt mixed with just a smidgeon of cayenne pepper.

When cool, put into a small bowl to serve with drinks.