Get ready to go nuts with these 20 scrumptious and nutritious walnut recipes! Walnuts are a superfood that’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any meal. From breakfast to dessert, we’ve got you covered with these creative and easy-to-make recipes that showcase the versatility of walnuts.
From sweet treats like Maple Walnut Quinoa Breakfast Bowl and Healthy Walnut and Banana Oatmeal Cookies, to savory dishes like Spinach and Walnut Stuffed Chicken Breast and Walnut Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget about the snacks! Walnut and Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs, Walnut Pesto Zucchini Noodles, and Walnut and Dark Chocolate Energy Bites are all delicious and nutritious options.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to explore the many uses of walnuts in cooking. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a special occasion or just want to add some excitement to your daily meals, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
Maple Walnut Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast bowl featuring quinoa, sweet maple syrup, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa and maple syrup. Toss until the quinoa is well coated.
2. Add chopped walnuts to the quinoa mixture and toss again.
3. Top the quinoa mixture with mixed berries.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the berries.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
6. If desired, sprinkle chia seeds on top for an extra nutritional boost.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on cooking quinoa)
Walnut Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this delectable combination of crispy walnut crust and tangy lemon dill sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together walnuts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Divide walnut mixture evenly among the fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine lemon juice and dill weed in a bowl.
6. Serve baked salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Healthy Walnut and Banana Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of healthy ingredients and delicious flavor. Made with mashed bananas, chopped walnuts, and rolled oats, they’re a great snack or breakfast option for on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together mashed bananas, egg, and honey.
4. Add chopped walnuts to the banana mixture and stir until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Walnut Stuffed Chicken Breast
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed chicken breast, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of spinach with the nutty crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, walnuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lay each chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision in the center of each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-walnut mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the tops of the stuffed breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Walnut and Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
Start your day off right with this nutritious and delicious breakfast combination featuring creamy avocado, crunchy walnuts, and a runny poached egg on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the avocado.
4. Poach the eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water and cooking for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
5. Place the poached eggs on top of the toast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Beet and Walnut Salad with Goat Cheese
A sweet and earthy salad that combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets, the crunch of walnuts, and the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup mixed greens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a separate pan, toast walnuts over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, toasted walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Walnut and Dark Chocolate Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the earthy flavor of walnuts with the richness of dark chocolate, providing a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the oats, walnuts, and salt.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and honey, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as these energy bites are no-bake!
Walnut Pesto Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy and the simplicity of summer with a unique twist – walnuts add depth and crunch to this creamy pesto zucchini noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup walnut pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto (or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles.
3. Toss zucchini noodles with walnut pieces, pesto, and olive oil in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until zucchinis are tender but still slightly crunchy.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serves: 4
Apple Walnut Chia Seed Pudding
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the crunch of walnuts and the nutrition of chia seeds, creating a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack option. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a base for yogurt parfaits.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the mixture to thicken.
3. Just before serving, stir in diced apple and chopped walnuts.
4. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Walnut and Lentil Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful vegetarian dish that combines the natural sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of lentils and walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, parsley, walnuts, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the lentil mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Healthy Walnut and Blueberry Smoothie
Start your day off right with this healthy walnut and blueberry smoothie recipe! Packed with omega-rich walnuts, antioxidant-rich blueberries, and creamy Greek yogurt, this drink is the perfect way to fuel up for a busy morning.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 6 ounces plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Combine the blueberries, walnuts, and banana in a blender.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, honey, and almond milk to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Walnut Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this crunchy walnut crust recipe! Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these tender bites are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together chopped walnuts, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, then coat in walnut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walnut and Kale Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this unique combination of crunchy walnuts and nutritious kale, tossed in a rich and tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened.
2. Add the chopped walnuts and toss to combine.
3. Pour in the Caesar dressing and toss again to coat the kale evenly.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Walnut and Fig Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and tender pork tenderloin stuffed with sweet figs and crunchy walnuts. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup caramelized figs (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the pork tenderloin with the walnut-fig mixture, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
4. Place the stuffed tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Walnut and Flaxseed Granola Bars
These homemade granola bars are packed with nutritious ingredients, including walnuts and flaxseeds, to keep you satisfied between meals. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these chewy treats that are perfect for snacking on the go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup flaxseeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Walnut and Pear Arugula Salad
This autumnal salad combines the earthy sweetness of pears with the tanginess of arugula, all tied together with crunchy walnuts. A perfect side dish or light lunch for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 ripe pear (such as Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula, pear, and walnuts.
2. If using blue cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Walnut and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty taste of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2 eggs, beaten (for a breakfast or brunch option)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stir in chopped walnuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with beaten eggs (if using) for a breakfast or brunch option.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Walnut and Chickpea Hummus Wrap
This flavorful wrap combines the creamy richness of hummus with the crunch of walnuts and the protein boost of chickpeas, making it a satisfying and nutritious snack or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, cucumber, avocado
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, walnuts, hummus, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Spread the walnut-hummus mixture onto the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Add your preferred toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, cucumber, or avocado.
5. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and enjoy.
Walnut and Coconut Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a deliciously nutty twist on traditional pancakes. These walnut and coconut flour pancakes are perfect for a special breakfast treat or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut flour, eggs, sugar, almond milk, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts and melted coconut oil.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the prepared skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Walnut and Turmeric Golden Milk Latte
Warm up with this nourishing and comforting latte, infused with the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and the earthy richness of walnuts. Perfect for a cozy night in or a pick-me-up any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, or oat work well)
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon walnut butter (or regular butter if preferred)
– 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the non-dairy milk over medium heat.
2. Add turmeric, cinnamon, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in walnut butter until melted.
4. Add honey if desired for sweetness.
5. Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavor and nutritional benefits of walnuts with these 20 delicious and healthy recipes! From sweet treats like Maple Walnut Quinoa Breakfast Bowl and Healthy Walnut and Banana Oatmeal Cookies, to savory dishes like Walnut Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce and Spinach and Walnut Stuffed Chicken Breast, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover creative ways to incorporate walnuts into your favorite snacks and meals, such as Walnut and Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs and Walnut Pesto Zucchini Noodles. Treat yourself to a walnut-filled culinary adventure!
