Getting creative with walnuts in your kitchen can have a multitude of benefits – from adding crunch and texture to your favorite dishes, to reaping the rewards of their impressive nutritional profile. Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and nutritious walnut recipes that will inspire you to get cooking. From sweet treats like smoothies and energy balls, to savory dishes like stuffed chicken breasts and quinoa salads, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying dinner option, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of walnuts!
Maple Walnut Oatmeal Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast bowl, featuring the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
– Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the maple syrup and salt until well combined.
4. Divide the oatmeal into bowls and top with chopped walnuts and a pinch of cinnamon (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Walnut Crusted Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious salmon dish, perfectly balanced by the tanginess of lemon and the freshness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon Dill Sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse walnuts until coarsely ground.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture on both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Coat each fillet with the walnut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare Lemon Dill Sauce by whisking together yogurt, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve baked salmon with a dollop of Lemon Dill Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Healthy Walnut and Banana Bread
This moist and delicious banana bread is packed with nutritious walnuts and sweet bananas, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option for the whole family. With only 125 calories per slice, you can indulge guilt-free!
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, walnuts, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, egg, honey, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Walnut Stuffed Chicken Breast
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional chicken breast, this recipe combines the earthy taste of spinach with the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 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. In a bowl, mix together spinach, walnuts, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries
This hearty quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of cranberries, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or vegetable broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walnut and Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
Elevate your breakfast game with this nutritious and flavorful combination of creamy avocado, crunchy walnuts, and perfectly poached eggs on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread mashed avocado on each slice of toast.
3. Sprinkle 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 yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Place the poached eggs on top of the toast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Beetroot and Walnut Hummus
Transform the humble hummus into a vibrant and earthy delight with roasted beetroot and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the beetroot cubes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender when pierced.
4. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted beetroot, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth, then stir in the walnut halves.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Walnut Pesto Zucchini Noodles
Get ready to upgrade your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the creamy richness of pesto with the nutty goodness of walnuts and the tender sweetness of zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Basil Pesto Recipe:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles.
2. In a food processor, blend the walnut halves until coarsely chopped.
3. Add the basil pesto and process until well combined with the walnuts.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the walnut-pesto mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with the walnut-pesto mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dark Chocolate Walnut Energy Balls
Give your day a boost with these no-bake energy balls packed with the goodness of dark chocolate, crunchy walnuts, and wholesome oats. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey until well mixed.
2. Stir in chopped walnuts and dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready in just a few minutes of mixing and shaping.
Walnut and Apple Cinnamon Smoothie
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of apples, the richness of walnuts, and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe apple, cored
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the apple, walnuts, honey, and cinnamon.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the Greek yogurt and almond milk. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and blend again for a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Walnut Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders
Walnut Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders: A Nutty Twist on a Classic Recipe
Get ready to elevate your chicken tender game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of walnuts with the tenderness of baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the walnut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Healthy Walnut and Date Granola Bars
A delicious and nutritious snack or breakfast option that combines the crunch of granola with the natural sweetness of dates and walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, walnuts, and dates.
3. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Walnut and Kale Caesar Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a classic Caesar salad. The result is a refreshing and healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Massage kale leaves with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until tender.
3. Toss chopped walnuts with a pinch of salt and spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine massaged kale, toasted walnuts, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walnut and Sweet Potato Veggie Burgers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional veggie burgers, these walnut and sweet potato patties are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite burger toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, and hummus
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, oats, walnuts, carrot, breadcrumbs, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Place the patties in the skillet or grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Walnut and Fig Chia Pudding
Rich and creamy, this Walnut and Fig Chia Pudding is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. A delicious breakfast or snack option that’s packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried figs, chopped
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and unsweetened almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb.
2. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts and dried figs.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Walnut and Blueberry Overnight Oats
A delicious breakfast or snack that’s packed with nutritious ingredients and a burst of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup fresh blueberries, divided
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together oats, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped walnuts and set aside.
3. Divide the mixture into two jars or containers with lids.
4. Top each jar with 1/4 cup blueberries.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
6. In the morning, give it a stir and add any desired toppings, such as additional blueberries, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Cooking Time: 8-24 hours (overnight)
Walnut and Pumpkin Seed Trail Mix
Get ready for a crunchy and nutritious snack with this delicious walnut and pumpkin seed trail mix recipe! With the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts and pumpkin seeds.
2. Add the dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips to the bowl.
3. Drizzle the honey over the mixture and sprinkle with salt.
4. Toss until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just minutes.
Walnut and Carrot Cake Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl that combines the natural sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of walnuts, and the creaminess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup frozen carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or granola
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, frozen carrots, and chopped walnuts.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Greek yogurt, honey, and salt. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Pour the mixture into a bowl and add toppings of your choice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Walnut and Lentil Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the earthy taste of lentils with the richness of walnuts for a delightful vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, chopped walnuts, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the lentil mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers and sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Walnut and Coconut Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a delightful breakfast treat that combines the richness of walnuts with the subtle flavor of coconut flour. These pancakes are a perfect blend of healthy and indulgent, making them a great choice for a special morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Butter or ghee for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, granulated sweetener, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, almond milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or ghee.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (5-6 pancakes)
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavor and nutritional benefits of walnuts with these 20 delicious and healthy recipes! From sweet treats like Walnut Pesto Zucchini Noodles and Dark Chocolate Walnut Energy Balls to savory dishes like Walnut Crusted Salmon and Spinach and Walnut Stuffed Chicken Breast, there’s something for everyone. These nutritious recipes showcase the versatility of walnuts in both sweet and savory dishes, making them a great addition to any meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a satisfying dessert, these walnut-based recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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