Walnuts have a unique flavor and texture that makes them a perfect addition to salads, sauces and spreads, and desserts. Our friends at California Walnuts offer these 7 Simple Ways to Use Walnuts in the Kitchen.

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7 SimpleWays To Use Walnuts in the Kitchen

• Chopped Walnut Coating. An alternative to bread crumbs, finely chopped walnuts are great as a coating for fish or poultry—adding extra flavor and crunch.
• Walnut Aioli. Add chopped walnuts to aioli for added texture and crunch. It can be used with wraps and sandwiches, or as a dip with roasted or grilled veggies.
• Salsa Verde with Walnuts. Toasted walnuts will add that signature earthy flavor to a variety of sauces, like an Italian salsa verde. They can be enjoyed on everything from crispy-roasted salmon to pulled pork.
• Walnut Butter. Easy to make with a variety of simple applications. It can be spread on crostini with a garnish or used as a dip for veggies.
• Walnut Pesto. A flavorful creation featuring walnuts, basil, olive oil and garlic. The flavor tones work together beautifully.
• Thickening Sauces. Grind walnuts so they’re the consistency of meal. Then use as a creamy, delicious thickening agent for sauces.
• Meat Substitute. Use a food processor to pulse walnuts and either mushrooms, cauliflower or beans, with desired seasoning, for use as a replacement in scrambles, tacos or pasta sauces.