As the long, lazy days of summer fade and we begin to return to busy routines, it’s nice to know California walnuts are here to help lighten the load, so you can Do More of the things you love. So when you’re pressed for time, look to these quick and easy recipe ideas as time-savers.
Why Cook with Walnuts?
Did you know that walnuts are good for your heart and overall wellness? That’s right, walnuts are the only nut with an excellent source of omega-3 ALA (2.5g/oz). And they have 4g of plant-based protein per ounce, making them an ideal ingredient to plus-up just about any dish.
What’s more is walnuts’ crunchy texture and rich, nutty taste pair so beautifully with some of our favorite seasonal produce, from ripe summer tomatoes, fresh herbs and creamy avocado to some of our favorite summertime fruits.
Check out this roundup of simple end-of-summer recipes that can be made in less than 30 minutes, to make life simpler, and more delicious too!
A Plant-Forward Take on Meatless Monday and Taco Tuesday
This 5-star Walnut Mexican Street Corn Taco recipe makes the perfect summertime weeknight dinner. And, this recipe comes together in just 18 minutes! To make, simply pulse walnuts, mushrooms and spices in a food processor and then cook over medium heat for 7-8 minutes. Serve over warm tortillas and top with your favorite garnishes – from fresh lime and cilantro to cotija cheese or homemade aioli.
Tip: If you have some extra walnuts left over, whip up this recipe for California Walnut Salsa to serve as a side dish or topping to enjoy with dinner, or make enough to snack on all week long.
The Fresh Flavors of Summer
One of the best dishes to make in the summer is this Pappardelle with California Walnut Pesto. The pesto comes together in a matter of minutes and uses summer flavors like fresh parsley (you can use basil or other herbs if you like too), garlic, olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, salt, pepper and toasted walnuts for a warm and nutty flavor. Serve over pappardelle pasta or zucchini noodles.
Tip: Double your batch and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to use throughout the week, like on this recipe for Chunky Walnut Pesto with Heirloom Tomatoes salad the next day. If you’re not planning on using the pesto right away, freeze it in an ice cube tray, and pop out a square when you’re ready to use it.
Quick and Easy Summer Meals in a Bowl
A hearty salad or bowl can make a perfect go-to meal for busy end-of-summer weeknights and can be a great way to use up leftovers to make your groceries go further.
Throw this Walnut, Quinoa and Ranch Chicken Salad together in just five minutes! To make, combine leftover chicken, cooked quinoa (you can make at home or buy ready-to-eat), walnuts, kale chips and tomato wedges, and top with ranch dressing. But don’t stop there: this kitchen-sink-style salad is perfect for using up leftover produce or adding any fun items you may have in your pantry – try olives, roasted bell pepper, fresh cucumber or anything else that sounds good to you!
Tip: If you’re a true ranch lover, you may want to make these Ranch Walnuts to add extra ranch flavor to your salad. But be sure you make enough to enjoy as a snack or salad topper all week long.
Who doesn’t love a good bowl? We love these recipes for Walnut Pear and Avocado Bowl and Salmon, Walnut and Avocado Grain Bowl for a simple and nutritious dinner that’s also quite delicious, uses seasonal avocados, and can easily be enjoyed for lunch the next day too!
Tip: Leftover avocado and walnuts? Turn them into a delicious snack with this recipe for Walnut and Roasted Tomato Guacamole. Walnuts add the perfect amount of flavor and texture.
Sweet Summer Nostalgia
The end of the summer is often the last chance to enjoy some quality time with friends and family before schedules get busy again. Make these moments count with some sweet treats everyone will enjoy and think back on with fond memories.
Turn a classic into a sweet and crunchy treat with these Chocolate and Walnut Covered Banana Pops. Just three ingredients, make ahead of time, freeze and enjoy when you’re ready.
Give your rice cereal treats extra flavor and texture with walnuts with this fun take: Walnut Browned Butter Rice Cereal Treats. And they make a perfect treat for your afternoon snack the next day.
For more inspiration, check out our collection of simple 30-minute meals.