Lemon Pavlova Without Flaked Almonds

Asked by Rads1205. Answered on 7th March 2016

Full question

Hi, I have made Nigella's Lemon Pavlova for a recent dinner party and it was absolutely delicious, thoroughly enjoyed by all. I have a friend who I would like to make this for but he has a nut allergy. Although I understand the flaked almonds are an essential part of the topping, is there an alternative that you could suggest please. Thanks.

Our answer

Nigella's Lemon Pavlova (from SIMPLY NIGELLA and on the Nigella website here) puts the flavour of lemon meringue pie into pavlova form. The toasted flaked (sliced) almonds that are scattered over add an extra, crunchy texture to the finished pavlova.

For those with a nut allergy the almonds could be omitted, or toasted pine nuts would make an interesting alternative and should be used in the same quantity. Pine nuts are classed as seeds and so can be eaten by many with nut allergies, but we would strongly advise checking before using them in case there is an allergy to these too.