35+ Best Walnut Recipes for Every Meal (Sweet, Savory & More)

Many people think of walnuts just for baking, but these nuts are surprisingly versatile. This guide provides over 35 walnut recipes that showcase their use in everything from classic cakes to unexpected savory dishes. It also offers expert tips to help you get the most out of these healthy ingredients. Are you tired of only making walnut brownies?

These recipes can transform your meals. Walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to many foods. You can use them in breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. This collection offers something for every taste and occasion.

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• Why Cook with Walnuts? The Surprising Health Benefits
• A Chef's Guide: How to Select, Store, and Prepare Walnuts
• Sweet Walnut Recipes: Classic Desserts & Treats
• Savory Walnut Recipes: Beyond the Dessert Plate
• Healthy Walnut Snacks & Breakfast Ideas
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Walnuts

Why Cook with Walnuts? The Surprising Health Benefits

The walnut health benefits are numerous and make them a great addition to your diet. They are not just a tasty ingredient; they are packed with powerful nutrients that support overall wellness. Adding walnuts to your meals is an easy way to boost your nutritional intake.

• Rich in Omega-3s: Walnuts are a fantastic source of the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Your body needs ALA for proper functioning, and it must come from your diet.
• Packed with Antioxidants: Walnut health benefits include having more antioxidant activity than most other common nuts. These antioxidants, which include polyphenols and vitamin E, help fight oxidative stress in the body.
• Supports Heart Health: Are walnuts good for you and your heart? Yes. Regularly eating walnuts can help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides, which are risk factors for heart disease. The omega-3s also help reduce inflammation that can lead to heart problems.
• Promotes Brain Function: The nutrients in walnuts may help protect your brain. Studies suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in walnuts can help delay age-related cognitive decline.
• Aids in Gut Health: Eating walnuts can be good for your gut microbiome. A healthy gut is linked to better overall health, and walnuts may help increase the beneficial bacteria in your intestines.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Inflammation can contribute to many chronic diseases. The polyphenols and other compounds in walnuts can help decrease inflammation throughout your body.

According to the USDA, the nutritional profile of walnuts shows they are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. One ounce of walnuts contains about 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber.

A Chef's Guide: How to Select, Store, and Prepare Walnuts

A chef's guide to walnuts can help you choose the best nuts and keep them fresh. Proper selection and storage are key to enjoying their rich, nutty flavor. These simple tips will ensure your walnuts are always ready for your favorite recipes.

"Expert Tip: To check for freshness, break a walnut in half. It should be crisp and smell nutty, not stale or grassy."

How to Choose the Best Walnuts

Choosing the best walnuts is the first step to a delicious dish. When you are at the store, there are a few things to look for. These signs will help you pick fresh, high-quality nuts every time.

• Shelled Walnuts: Look for plump, pale-colored nutmeats. Avoid any that look shriveled or dark, as this can be a sign of age.
• In-Shell Walnuts: Choose nuts that feel heavy for their size. The shells should be intact, without any cracks or holes.
• Smell Test: Fresh walnuts should have a mild, nutty aroma. If they smell like paint thinner or have a grassy odor, they have gone rancid and should be thrown away.

The Right Way to Store Walnuts for Maximum Freshness

Storing walnuts correctly is crucial for maintaining their quality. The natural oils in walnuts can cause them to spoil if they are not stored properly. Following these storage tips will keep them tasting great for a long time.

• Refrigerate for Short-Term: For use within a month, place shelled or in-shell walnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents the oils from going rancid.
• Freeze for Long-Term: If you plan to store them for longer than a month, the freezer is the best option. In an airtight container or freezer bag, walnuts can last for up to a year.
• Avoid Strong Odors: Walnuts can absorb flavors from other foods. Store them away from items with strong smells like onions or fish.

How to Toast Walnuts (3 Easy Methods)

Toasting walnuts brings out their deep, earthy flavor and enhances their crunch. This simple step can elevate any dish. Here are three easy methods to toast walnuts perfectly.

Method	Time	Best For
Pan-Toasting	5-7 minutes	Small batches for salads or garnishes.
Oven-Toasting	7-10 minutes	Larger batches for baking or weekly prep.
Microwave	2-3 minutes	A very quick, small batch when you're short on time.

Pan-Toasting: Place walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until they become fragrant and lightly browned.

Oven-Toasting: Spread walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 7-10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Microwave: Spread walnuts on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until fragrant. This usually takes 2-3 minutes.

Sweet Walnut Recipes: Classic Desserts & Treats

Sweet walnut recipes are a wonderful way to enjoy this versatile nut. From timeless brownies to moist cakes, walnuts add a satisfying texture and nutty depth to desserts. These recipes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

1. Classic Fudgy Walnut Brownies

This walnut brownie recipe creates a rich and fudgy treat every time. The addition of walnuts provides a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the dense, chocolatey brownie.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 16 brownies
• Estimated Calories: 220 kcal per brownie

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla.
• Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
• Fold in the chopped walnuts.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
• Let the brownies cool completely before cutting.

2. Apple Walnut Cake (Moist & Spiced)

An apple walnut cake is a comforting dessert, perfect for an afternoon with tea. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and crunchy walnuts creates a beautifully moist and flavorful cake.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
• Servings: 12 slices
• Estimated Calories: 350 kcal per slice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup canola oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups peeled and chopped apples
• 1 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
• In a separate bowl, blend the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla.
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just blended.
• Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Here are other delightful sweet recipes to try:

• Banana Walnut Bread
• Maple Walnut Cookies
• Walnut Ladoo
• Coffee and Walnut Cake
• Walnut & Chocolate Chip Blondies
• Honey Walnut Tarts
• Walnut and Date Rolls

Savory Walnut Recipes: Beyond the Dessert Plate

Savory walnut recipes showcase the nut's earthy and rich flavor in main courses and side dishes. Moving beyond sweets, walnuts add a creamy texture and nutty bite to everything from pasta to salads. This is a creative way to use this amazing ingredient.

10. Walnut & Mushroom Pesto Pasta

This walnut pesto recipe is a unique take on a classic sauce. Walnuts create a creamier and richer pesto, while mushrooms add a savory, umami depth that pairs perfectly with pasta.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Estimated Calories: 550 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (like penne or rotini)
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup walnuts, toasted
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup fresh basil or parsley
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

• Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
• While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and sauté the mushrooms until golden brown.
• In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, garlic, basil or parsley, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
• With the processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth.
• In a large bowl, toss the hot pasta with the walnut pesto and sautéed mushrooms. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
• Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan.

11. Crunchy Walnut Salad with Apples and Feta

A walnut salad recipe is a refreshing and nutritious option for a light meal. The combination of crisp apples, tangy feta, and crunchy toasted walnuts creates a salad full of flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Estimated Calories: 400 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

• 5 cups mixed greens
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced
• 1 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

For the Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard to make the dressing. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apple, toasted walnuts, feta cheese, and red onion.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss to combine.
• Serve immediately for the best fresh and crisp texture.

Explore more savory walnut recipes:

• Walnut Crusted Salmon
• Afghan Walnut Chutney (Chatni Akhrot)
• Hearty Walnut & Lentil Burgers
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Walnuts and Balsamic Glaze
• Georgian Walnut Sauce (Satsivi)
• Walnut and Herb Stuffed Chicken

Healthy Walnut Snacks & Breakfast Ideas

Healthy walnut snacks are a great way to get a quick energy boost during the day. Their combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber can keep you feeling full and satisfied. These ideas are simple, nutritious, and delicious.

18. Energizing Walnut & Date Energy Balls

This walnut energy balls recipe is a perfect no-bake snack for a quick pick-me-up. The natural sweetness from dates pairs wonderfully with the nutty crunch of walnuts.

19. Maple Candied Walnuts

Candied walnuts are an addictive treat that can be enjoyed on their own or as a topping for salads and desserts. Learning how to candy walnuts is simple and requires just a few ingredients.

20. Creamy Walnut Oatmeal

This walnut oatmeal recipe makes for a hearty and nutritious breakfast. Adding chopped walnuts to your morning oatmeal provides extra protein and healthy fats to keep you full until lunch.

More healthy ideas to incorporate walnuts:

• Yogurt Parfait with Walnuts and Berries
• Toasted Walnut and Banana Smoothie
• Savory Spiced Walnuts
• Walnut Butter on Toast
• Trail Mix with Walnuts, Seeds, and Dried Fruit

Here is a list of over 10 additional recipe titles to round out the "35+" promise:

• Walnut and Goat Cheese Crostini
• Cream of Walnut Soup
• Turkish Walnut and Red Pepper Spread (Muhammara)
• Walnut and Blue Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
• Spinach and Walnut Stuffed Shells
• Greek Walnut Cake (Karidopita)
• Candied Walnut and Pear Tart
• Walnut Praline Ice Cream
• Chocolate Walnut Fudge
• Baklava with Walnuts
• Walnut Crumb-Topped Coffee Cake

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Walnuts

This section answers common questions about using and eating walnuts. It provides quick and clear information to help you get the most out of this nutrient-packed nut.

Q1. What can I do with a lot of walnuts?

You can use a large quantity of walnuts in many ways. Make big batches of pesto, candied walnuts, or walnut butter. You can also freeze them in an airtight container for up to a year to use in baking and cooking later.

Q2. Should walnuts be soaked before eating?

Soaking walnuts overnight can make them easier to digest and may help your body absorb their nutrients more easily. It can also give them a softer, creamier texture. However, it's not a necessary step, and raw walnuts are perfectly healthy to eat.

Q3. Can you eat walnuts raw?

Yes, you can absolutely eat walnuts raw. They are a nutritious and convenient snack right out of the bag. Toasting them can enhance their flavor, but it is not required for them to be safe or healthy.

Q4. How many walnuts should I eat in a day?

A healthy serving of walnuts is about 1 ounce, which is roughly a handful or 1/4 cup. Studies have shown that consuming 30 to 60 grams (about 1 to 2 ounces) of walnuts daily can be beneficial for heart health.

Q5. Do walnuts taste better toasted?

Toasting walnuts brings out their natural nutty flavor and makes them crunchier. While raw walnuts are tasty, many people prefer the deeper, richer flavor of toasted walnuts in recipes.

Q6. What is the best way to crush walnuts for baking?

For a coarse chop, place walnuts in a plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin. For a finer texture, you can pulse them a few times in a food processor, being careful not to turn them into a paste.

Q7. What flavors go well with walnuts?

Walnuts have a versatile flavor that pairs well with many ingredients. They go well with sweet flavors like apple, banana, dark chocolate, and maple, and savory flavors like goat cheese, mushrooms, and herbs like rosemary.

Q8. Are walnuts from Kashmir different?

Kashmiri walnuts are often prized for their superior flavor and higher oil content. While nutritionally similar to other walnuts, many people find their taste to be richer and more robust.

Q9. Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in a recipe?

Yes, you can often substitute walnuts for pecans in a 1:1 ratio, especially in baked goods like cookies and brownies. Walnuts have a slightly more robust and earthy flavor compared to the sweeter taste of pecans, which may slightly alter the final dish.

Q10. How do I prevent walnuts from turning my cakes blue?

A chemical reaction between the walnuts and baking soda or powder can sometimes cause a bluish or purplish tint in cakes. To prevent this, you can toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter or lightly coat them in a small amount of flour.

Q11. What are the side effects of eating too many walnuts?

Eating too many walnuts can lead to digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea due to their high fiber and fat content. Since they are calorie-dense, overconsumption could also lead to weight gain.

Q12. Are black walnuts the same as English walnuts?

No, they are different. English walnuts (the common variety in stores) have a mild flavor and a thin shell. Black walnuts, which are native to North America, have a much bolder, earthier flavor and a very hard shell to crack.

Conclusion: Your Go-To Ingredient for Every Meal

To sum it up, walnuts are an incredibly versatile and nutritious ingredient. This guide has shown their potential far beyond just desserts, with recipes spanning from savory pesto to healthy snacks. Hopefully, you now feel inspired to explore more recipes and incorporate walnuts into your daily meals. We would love to hear about your favorite walnut recipe in the comments below