Are you looking for a quick and easy way to elevate your snacks or salads? Look no further! This recipe for spiced walnuts is incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and time, yet delivers a burst of flavor that's both satisfying and addictive. These crunchy, spiced walnuts are perfect as a standalone snack, a delightful addition to salads, or even a unique topping for yogurt or oatmeal. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that takes just minutes but packs a delicious punch. This recipe is a great example of healthy meals that are also easy recipes to prepare. Ready to transform simple walnuts into a culinary masterpiece? Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts, shelled and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for even cooking and prevents the nuts from sticking.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, toss the walnuts with olive oil, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne pepper, and sea salt. Make sure the walnuts are evenly coated with the spice mixture. This step is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors in your spiced walnuts.
- Spread on baking sheet: Spread the seasoned walnuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even roasting.
- Roast: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the walnuts are fragrant and lightly golden brown, stirring halfway through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Cool and enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the spiced walnuts cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. Allowing them to cool completely helps prevent them from becoming soggy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spiced Walnuts:
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder spice, use less, or omit it altogether. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Use different spices: Experiment with other spices! Ground cloves, nutmeg, or ginger would also be delicious additions.
- Toasting the walnuts: For even deeper flavor, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry pan before adding the spices and oil. This step enhances the nutty flavor profile.
- Storage: Store your spiced walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They'll stay fresh and crunchy for a while!
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Increase the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons for a sweeter, more caramelized flavor.
- Savory Spiced Walnuts: Omit the maple syrup and add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for a savory twist. These make a wonderful addition to pasta dishes or roasted vegetables.
- Chocolate Spiced Walnuts: After roasting, toss the walnuts with 1-2 tablespoons of melted dark chocolate.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per ¼ cup serving
- Fat: High in healthy fats
- Protein: Good source of protein
- Fiber: Good source of fiber
This recipe for spiced walnuts offers a quick and easy way to create a healthy and delicious snack or salad topping. Its versatility makes it perfect for adding a flavorful crunch to numerous dishes. Whether you're looking for quick dinner ideas or simply a healthy treat, these spiced walnuts are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. They're a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both simple and satisfying. Enjoy!