As winter fades and spring awakens nature’s bounty, we welcome its vibrant and delicious produce into our kitchens and recipes. From tender asparagus and juicy strawberries to crisp peas and leafy greens, spring offers us endless options that bring back the lively tastes of the garden we wait for all year long.
Eating in tune with the seasons has incredible benefits that are beneficial for your well-being as well as for the flavor of your dishes. In-season produce is likely to be grown closer to you and picked at its peak – this means that the plants that wind up on your family’s table are likely to have their best flavor.
Spring is also the time when California walnuts enter the phase of the growing process called “spring bloom,” which is when the walnut trees begin to blossom. Fun fact: Walnuts are self-pollinating, with female and male flowers on the same tree. Unlike many crops, walnuts do not need bees or other insects, but use wind to carry the pollen from the male flowers (called catkins) to the female flowers.
Now, let’s talk about recipes! We are thrilled to share our favorite uses of California walnuts and this season’s vibrant produce to help fill your breakfasts, lunches, and dinners with dishes you’ll love for a lifetime.
Satisfy your cravings with our tasty Carrot Cake Smoothie. This treat blends wholesome ingredients and bursts at the seams with the natural flavor of carrots. Sprinkle some walnuts on top to add a satisfying crunch to this delicious smoothie. Whether you choose to enjoy it for breakfast or as a guilt-free dessert, this smoothie is about to become a new favorite.
Our Spinach, Walnut and Strawberry Salad offers a vibrant combination of flavors with a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and sweet. Packed with nutrients and overflowing with fresh, seasonal produce, this salad is a perfect accompaniment to a light spring meal or as a standalone dish.
Topped with crunchy California walnuts and juicy fresh fruits, our Walnut, Avocado and Fruit Smoothie Bowl is a nutritious and satisfying dish you’ll yearn to indulge in from time to time. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the abundant fruits and nutty walnuts, giving you a delicious and refreshing snack that can help keep you energized throughout the day.
Take a culinary journey with this tasty Beet Muhammara, a twist on a classic dip. Beets blend perfectly with buttery walnuts and flavorful seasonings to create a rich and unforgettable spread. It’s perfect for dipping, spreading on toast, or serving alongside your favorite meals. Plus, it’s a beautiful pink!
Pappardelle with California Walnut Pesto is our favorite simple weeknight meal when you’re looking for something the whole family will love. This pesto pasta is full of fresh spring flavor due to the bright parsley, which complements the nutty flavor of the walnuts. Pro tip: freeze any leftover pesto in an ice cube tray to use later!
Don’t forget: Like all produce, walnuts are best enjoyed when they’re kept fresh. Walnuts maintain their freshness best when chilled in the refrigerator.
Get more recipe inspiration by visiting our blog, and sign up for our email to keep up to date on food trends!
