I've see these terms in dessert recipes (like for cheesecake crusts) but I'm not quite sure how to go about toasting or roasting nuts. How do I know when they're done? What is the difference? What is the preferred method for both?

Thanks

Roasting usually implies that some fat is used and toasted is without fat. For dessert recipes, no fat is needed.

Preheat the oven to 350F. Spread whole almonds out on a baking sheet and cook for 5 minutes. Check and continue cooking in 2 minute increments until light brown. The almonds will continue cooking after they're removed from the oven so don't overbrown them.

Karen

Ah! Thank you so much! You are so wonderful to share your culinary wisdom. Much appreciated.