National Walnut Day originated in 1949, thanks to the Walnut Marketing Board. It then received a presidential proclamation by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1958. So, go ahead… celebrate!
High in antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, walnuts are not just for desserts. Try coarsely chopping walnuts and adding to rice or veggie dishes. Or replace pine nuts with walnuts when you make pesto. Top cereal or muffins with walnuts, either whole or coarsely chopped. Walnuts are great in banana bread, slaw, granola bars, and stuffings. And over salads, walnuts are nutty mahhhhvelous, whether raw, toasted, or caramelized.
Caramelized Walnuts are Super Simple. Nibble on them as a snacking treat or to use as a decorative addition for cakes and cookies or roasted meats.
1 c walnut halves (or large pieces)
¼ c granulated sugar (or monk fruit or coconut sugar)
1 T butter
Toss all the ingredients into a skillet over medium heat. As the sugar begins to melt, stir the nuts continuously for 5 minutes to coat them while toasting. Then spoon onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, quickly separating the nuts (with a couple of spoons) to help them cool and “set,” which only takes 5 minutes. Enjoy these gems in popcorn, over salads, or just for snacking! (And, yes! This works with other favorite nuts, too!)
