1 cup pine nuts (or any quantity; for any more than 1 cup use the oven method)
Instructions
Stovetop method: Place the nuts in a dry skillet (no oil) over medium heat. Heat, shaking the pan and stirring often with a wooden spoon, until the nuts are fragrant and golden brown, about 3 minutes. Stay at the stove because the nuts can easily burn! Remove immediately from the heat and transfer to a plate to stop the cooking.
Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the nuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 5 minutes until fragrant and golden brown, stirring once. Do not stray far from the oven, since the nuts can go from toasted to burned quickly. Remove immediately and transfer to a plate to stop the cooking.
Use immediately. Or, allow to cool completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 week and refrigerated at least 2 months. (You also can extend the life by freezing nuts.)