When it comes to maintaining a balanced diet, incorporating nuts into your meals can be a game-changer. Not only are they packed with protein and healthy fats, but they also add texture, flavor, and a boost of essential vitamins and minerals. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and nutritious nut recipes that will help you power through your day. From sweet treats like dark chocolate and nut energy bars to savory dishes like nut-crusted baked salmon, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a healthy snack to munch on throughout the day, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of nut-based recipes features everything from protein-packed smoothies and bowls to crunchy granolas and trail mixes. And with options like pistachio-crusted chicken tenders and cashew and lentil curry, even picky eaters will find something they love.
So go ahead, get cracking (pun intended!), and explore the world of healthy nut recipes below.
Quinoa and almond protein bowls
This recipe combines the protein-rich quinoa with crunchy almonds, sweet dried cranberries, and tangy Greek yogurt for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together quinoa, almonds, and honey.
2. Spoon the mixture into a bowl.
3. Top with Greek yogurt and dried cranberries.
4. Sprinkle salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, using cooked quinoa as the base.
Tips:
– Use leftover cooked quinoa or cook it according to package instructions.
– Substitute other nuts or seeds for almonds if preferred.
– Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Chia seed pudding with walnuts and honey
Satisfy your sweet tooth while boosting your fiber intake with this simple and delicious chia seed pudding recipe, topped with crunchy walnuts and a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Add honey and salt to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours or overnight until thickened.
4. Just before serving, top with chopped walnuts.
Cooking Time: 2-24 hours (depending on how long you want to let it sit in the fridge)
Avocado and nut butter smoothie
Kickstart your day with a nutritious and delicious smoothie packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocado and place it in a blender.
2. Add the peanut butter, almond milk, and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency by adding more honey or ice cubes.
5. Pour into a glass and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to make, ready in just 2-3 minutes.
Roasted chickpeas with mixed nuts
Transform humble chickpeas into a crunchy, flavorful snack by roasting them with mixed nuts and a hint of spice. Perfect for munching on the go or as a healthy addition to your favorite trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dashes hot sauce (e.g., sriracha)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt until coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
5. Add mixed nuts to the baking sheet and continue roasting for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the nuts are toasted and fragrant.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. If desired, add hot sauce and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Nut-crusted baked salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of nuts with the delicate taste of baked fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together almonds, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle the nut mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dark chocolate and nut energy bars
Revitalize your day with these bite-sized energy bars packed with wholesome ingredients and rich dark chocolate flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and dark chocolate chips.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin seed and nut granola
This granola combines the warmth of pumpkin seeds with the richness of nuts, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast topping. With just a few simple steps, you can create a deliciously crunchy treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and pumpkin seeds.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Spread mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Walnut and beet salad with goat cheese
A sweet and savory combination of roasted beets, crunchy walnuts, and tangy goat cheese creates a delightful salad perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
5. Add the roasted beets, walnut halves, and crumbled goat cheese to the bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (including roasting time)
Almond flour pancakes with berries
Start your day with a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pancakes using almond flour and topped with sweet berries. These pancakes are gluten-free, low-carb, and perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Fresh berries of your choice (e.g., blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, eggs, and almond milk until smooth.
2. Add salt and honey or maple syrup (if using) and mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with fresh berries and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Cashew and lentil curry
This Indian-inspired curry combines the creaminess of cashews with the nutritional power of lentils, making it a satisfying and filling meal. With its subtle spices and nutty flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cashew butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cashew butter and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
5. Combine cooked lentils with the skillet mixture. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Nutty banana oatmeal with flaxseeds
A delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the nuttiness of flaxseeds, and the heartiness of oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the mashed banana, ground flaxseed, honey or maple syrup (if using), and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the oats have reached your desired consistency.
5. Serve warm, garnished with sliced banana or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 7-10 minutes
Pistachio-crusted chicken tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy and flavorful chicken tenders coated in a nutty pistachio crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together chopped pistachios, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the pistachio mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Peanut butter and banana protein muffins
These muffins are a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter, sweet bananas, and protein-rich ingredients, making them an ideal snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup whey protein powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 ripe banana, mashed
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, protein powder, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mashed banana, peanut butter, egg, and honey until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Hazelnut and cocoa overnight oats
Elevate your morning routine with this creamy and indulgent overnight oats recipe, featuring the rich flavors of hazelnuts and cocoa. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, chia seeds, honey, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add cocoa powder and stir to mix.
3. Top with chopped hazelnuts and dark chocolate chips.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
5. In the morning, give the oats a stir and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (overnight)
Sunflower seed and nut hummus
A creamy and nutritious dip perfect for snacking or entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, sunflower seeds, nuts, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Transfer hummus to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spiced pecans with cinnamon and maple
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and spicy pecans, perfect for munching on while watching your favorite show or as a gift for friends. The combination of cinnamon and maple syrup creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the pecan halves to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the pecans out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Macadamia-crusted cod with lemon
This recipe elevates classic cod to new heights by adding the rich flavor of macadamia nuts and a burst of citrus from fresh lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup macadamia nuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, blend macadamia nuts until coarsely chopped.
3. Place cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cod, then sprinkle with lemon juice and minced garlic.
5. Top each fillet with chopped macadamia nuts, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Trail mix with almonds, cashews, and dried fruit
Looking for a healthy and delicious snack to fuel your adventures? This recipe combines the crunch of almonds, cashews, and sweet dried fruit for a tasty treat that’s easy to take on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds and cashews)
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, raisins)
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips or M&M’s
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, almonds, cashews, and dried fruit.
2. Stir in the chocolate chips or M&M’s.
3. Drizzle with honey and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cook Time: None needed! Just mix and enjoy.
Summary
Discover 18 healthy and delicious recipes that will help you achieve a balanced diet. From savory dishes like nut-crusted baked salmon and cashew and lentil curry, to sweet treats like dark chocolate and nut energy bars and almond flour pancakes with berries, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include quinoa and almond protein bowls, chia seed pudding with walnuts and honey, and trail mix with almonds, cashews, and dried fruit. These recipes are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients to support overall health and wellbeing.
