Crack This Open: It’s National Walnut Day

National Walnut Day is a great excuse to cook or bake something with this versatile and nutritious nut. Walnuts add a rich, slightly earthy flavor and a delicious crunch to all kinds of recipes. They’re also packed with healthy fats, making them a smart ingredient choice.

From baked goods like brownies and breads to salads, sauces, and main dishes, walnuts can do a lot. They pair well with sweet or savory ingredients and work in everything from breakfast to dinner. Whether toasted or raw, they bring texture and depth to a dish.

These recipes highlight the many ways you can use walnuts in your cooking. Some are quick and simple, while others are a bit more involved, but all are flavorful and worth trying. It’s a great way to make the most of a pantry staple that deserves more attention.

Creamed Spinach with Feta and Walnuts

This creamy spinach dish gets a bold twist with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts. The greens stay tender while the cheese adds a bit of saltiness and the walnuts bring crunch. It works well as a side dish or even spooned over baked potatoes or grilled meats. A cozy mix of flavors and textures that’s easy to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Feta and Walnuts

Zucchini & Walnut Muffins

These moist muffins are packed with shredded zucchini and chopped walnuts, making them hearty and full of texture. A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg brings warmth without overpowering. They’re great for breakfast, snacks, or even packed in lunchboxes. A nice way to use up extra zucchini without it feeling like an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini & Walnut Muffins

Maple Syrup Walnut Muffins

Rich maple syrup gives these muffins a deep sweetness, while chopped walnuts add crunch and depth. The batter bakes up soft and fragrant, with a nutty aroma that fills the kitchen. A sprinkle of oats or raw sugar on top adds a little extra texture. Great with coffee or tea, especially on cooler mornings.
Get the Recipe: Maple Syrup Walnut Muffins

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

This homemade version of the popular dish features crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet sauce with candied walnuts on top. The shrimp stay crunchy while the sauce adds a rich glaze that clings to every bite. It’s easy to make at home and tastes just as good as the restaurant version. Great for a quick weeknight dinner or something a bit more fun.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Tender chunks of chicken get mixed with dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy dressing in this classic combo. It’s slightly sweet, a little tangy, and perfectly balanced with the nutty crunch. Great in sandwiches, wraps, or spooned over greens for a lighter meal. A simple way to make lunch feel a bit more interesting.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Creamy Whipped Feta Dip with Garlic and Toasted Walnuts

Feta gets whipped until smooth and creamy, then layered with roasted garlic and crunchy walnuts for a rich, flavorful dip. It’s tangy, a bit earthy, and pairs perfectly with warm pita, crackers, or fresh veggies. Easy to prep ahead for gatherings or to enjoy as a snack. A bold alternative to the usual dips.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Whipped Feta Dip with Garlic and Toasted Walnuts

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crispy shrimp tossed in a light, sweet sauce and topped with glossy candied walnuts. The contrast of textures—from crunchy to creamy—makes it a standout dish. It’s fast to make and feels just a bit special, whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Honey Walnut Shrimp

Chinese Walnut Cookies Recipe: Old Fashioned Classic

These crumbly, lightly sweet cookies have a distinct walnut flavor and a soft, sandy texture. They’re shaped into rounds, often with a walnut pressed on top before baking. Perfect with tea or tucked into a cookie tin for sharing. A nostalgic recipe that’s stood the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Walnut Cookies Recipe: Old Fashioned Classic

Pomegranate chicken with walnuts

Juicy chicken is simmered in a rich pomegranate and walnut sauce, giving the dish a deep, slightly tangy flavor. The sauce thickens as it cooks, coating the chicken in a rich glaze. Often served with rice or flatbread, it’s bold, comforting, and full of character. A great mix of sweet, savory, and nutty.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate chicken with walnuts

Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe: Soft And Nutty!

These cookies are soft in the center with just enough crisp around the edges, and the chopped walnuts add the perfect crunch. The combo of gooey chocolate and earthy nuts is timeless. Bake a batch for dessert, gifting, or snacking. They’re easy to love and hard to stop at one.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe: Soft And Nutty!

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

This pasta dish features a creamy, garlicky walnut-based sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s rich without being heavy, and the walnuts add both flavor and body to the sauce. A bit of parmesan and herbs round things out. Great for when you want something comforting but not complicated.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Spiced Walnuts

Toasted walnuts coated in a warm mix of spices make a perfect snack or salad topping. You can go sweet or savory depending on what you’re in the mood for. They store well and are perfect for gifting or setting out during gatherings. A handful goes a long way in adding crunch and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Walnuts

Let’s Make Walnut Whirls

These classic treats combine marshmallow, soft biscuit, and rich chocolate with a walnut on top. They’re a bit nostalgic and a lot of fun to make, especially with kids. You can tweak the filling to suit your taste—whether you go more chocolate or add a flavored cream. A playful project that ends in something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Let’s Make Walnut Whirls