10 Tasty and Nutritious Walnut Recipes to Try

The Nutritional Benefits of Walnuts

Walnuts are full of healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are considered a superfood because they provide important health benefits like improving heart health, brain function, and anti-inflammatory properties.

10 Tasty Walnut Recipes

1. Walnut Pesto Pasta

This sauce is creamy, nutty, and full of flavor thanks to fresh basil, garlic, and grated parmesan. Simply toss it with your favorite pasta shape like farfalle or penne.

2. Walnut-Stuffed Dates

A healthy sweet snack made by stuffing dates with a creamy walnut filling. Kids will love the natural sweetness.

3. Walnut Granola

Crunchy granola is made extra nutritious with the addition of chopped walnuts. Eat with yogurt or milk for breakfast.

4. Fig and Walnut Crostini

An elegant appetizer featuring fig jam, goat cheese, and chopped walnuts atop toasted baguette slices.

5. Maple Walnut Blondies

Buttery blondies dotted with toasted walnuts and swirled with maple syrup for a delicious dessert or snack.

6. Autumn Apple and Walnut Salad

Fresh apples, celery, dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts make this seasonal salad special.

7. Candied Walnuts

Coated in a sweet and spicy mixture, these crunchy candied walnuts make a perfect party snack.

8. Walnut Pancakes

Fluffy whole wheat pancakes dotted with chopped walnuts is a tasty and nutritious breakfast the whole family will love.

9. Walnut Bread

This whole grain quick bread is packed with chopped walnuts for great texture and full nutty flavor.

10. Walnut Cookies

Chewy oatmeal cookies full of walnuts and raisins make a classic after school snack for kids.

FAQ

What are some health benefits of walnuts?

Walnuts provide important nutrients like healthy fats, protein, fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants. They are good for heart health, brain health, anti-inflammatory benefits, and balancing blood sugar.

Are walnuts good for weight loss?

Yes, walnuts can be part of a healthy weight loss plan because they provide satiety from protein and fiber so you feel fuller longer. The healthy fats also curb cravings. Just watch portion sizes.

What is the best way to store walnuts?

Store walnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent them from going rancid. They will keep for 6-12 months properly stored.

Can you eat walnut shells?

No, you should not eat the hard outer shell of walnuts. Only the edible meat inside the shells should be consumed. The shell can be very difficult to digest.

Are walnuts good for the environment?

Yes, walnuts have a very positive environmental impact! As native trees requiring no irrigation, walnut orchards actively sequester carbon dioxide as the trees grow. Supporting sustainable local walnut farming is earth-friendly.