Honey-Almond Spread: Process together 4 ounces blanched almonds that have been toasted until just lightly brown, pinch of sea salt, 4 tablespoons almond or vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons honey.

Honey-Lemon Mayonnaise: Whisk together 1/2 cup good-quality mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey. Serve with shrimp or chicken.

Quick ideas for maple syrup

Maple Butter: Whip together 3/4 cup softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup maple syrup, a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of salt. Store in a covered bowl or wrapped in parchment or plastic in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Maple Chèvre: Whip 2 tablespoons maple syrup into 1 cup softened chèvre. Serve on crackers or spread on pizza crust and top with chopped rosemary.

From “Sweet Nature”