Did you know that there is more than one reason to think of red hearts in February? Not only is it Valentine’s Day, but it’s American Heart Month, too! And while many people love flowers, chocolates in little heart-shaped boxes, and that cute little cupid character, let’s take some time this month to honor the part of us that helps to make all that love possible in the first place — our heart. And what better way to show our hearts how much we love them than by committing to a healthier lifestyle?
A healthy lifestyle includes being mindful of what we eat and fueling our bodies with food that is not only delicious but also nutritious.California walnuts are certified through the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check program as a heart-healthy* food. Walnuts are the only tree nut that contain a significant amount of omega-3 ALA (2.5g/oz), which research has shown is key for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and more.
So if you’re looking for fun ways to incorporate more walnuts into your diet, we’ve compiled a list of heart-healthy meals and snacks that are sure to get your mouth watering.
Simple Heart-Healthy Meals and Snacks
If you’re looking for a simple, heart-healthy breakfast, this recipe for Banana Bread Overnight Oats is for you! This make-ahead recipe combines bananas, oats, walnuts, cinnamon and vanilla to create a tasty and satisfying start to the day. Prepare the night before and store them in the refrigerator overnight for a delicious and nutritious breakfast that can be enjoyed in the morning, and all week long.
If you need a “pop” of energy during the day to get that pep back in your step, then these Maple Walnut Energy Balls are perfectly poppable (simple, and no-bake, too!). With just 6 ingredients – a combination of oats, savory dates, crunchy walnuts, and just the right touch of sweetness, these little energy balls come together in less than 20 minutes and double as the perfect on-the-go breakfast or a mid-day snack to help you power through your day.
For those looking for a fun and wholesome spin on chocolate-covered cherries, consider making a batch of No-Bake Walnut, Cocoa, Cherry Bars. These little beauties are the perfect combination of cocoa and sweet cherry flavors. Each batch yields 9 bars — meaning you’ll have enough to share (or keep all to yourself).
If you’re a fan of sweet and spicy flavor combinations, then Sweet and Spicy Walnuts are the perfect snack for you. For this recipe, flavors of walnuts in sugar and cayenne pepper come together to make a tasty treat that you can easily snack on throughout the day.
For the veggie lovers, this Power Up with Plants Protein Box checks all the boxes. While you can change out the veggies for your favorites, this particular recipe calls for protein-packed hummus and roasted chickpeas as well as a colorful combination of crunchy carrots, bell pepper strips, and sliced cucumber. This no-cook heart-healthy snack is easy to make in batches and even easier to enjoy on-the-go or while working from home.
If you’re in a time crunch and craving something that hits on all your favorite sweet and savory notes consider this Cottage Cheese-Walnut Caprese Toast. This treat will give you exactly the pick-me-up you’re looking for. As a spin on the classic caprese, this recipe combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic on a bed of cottage cheese and toasted bread. Add texture with a topping of toasted walnuts and enjoy!
If you’re a toast fan looking for a gluten-free option, Sweet Potato Avocado Toast with Walnuts is a fun alternative to traditional avocado toast. Simply substitute a slice of sweet potato for bread. Did you know you can toast sweet potatoes just like bread? Cover with avocado and crunchy walnuts. If you’re feeling spicy, add red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.
Your Heart Deserves Heart-Healthy Meals and Snacks
In February and for all the months that follow, remember to give your heart the same love that it gives you every single day by fueling your body with heart-healthy, delicious, and nourishing meals. And if you’d like to find even more delicious recipes to incorporate into your routine, be sure to check out our collection of American Heart Association Heart-Check mark certified recipes here!
