How to Toast Walnuts

 

Prep: 3 mins

Cook: 10 mins

Total: 13 mins

Servings: 4

Yield: 1 cup walnuts

Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor, making them more nutty and less bitter than their raw counterparts. Here's how to expertly toast walnuts using two different methods: oven and stovetop.

Tips for Toasting Success

• Single Layer: Only roast as many walnuts as fit on the pan in a single layer, ideally with some space between them for even air circulation.
• Check Frequently: Start checking your walnuts after 5 minutes, then check every minute until they begin to brown and smell nutty.
• Residual Heat: Remove walnuts from the heat source as soon as you notice a color change; the residual heat will continue toasting them for a few minutes.

Oven Method

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Baking Sheet:

   • Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet in an even layer. For easier cleanup, you can line the sheet with foil or parchment paper.

3. Toast Walnuts:

   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the walnuts until they start to brown and smell toasted, about 5 to 10 minutes. Begin checking at the 5-minute mark to prevent burning.

4. Cool Walnuts:

   • Transfer the toasted walnuts to a plate or cutting board to cool completely before using. If chopped nuts are needed, chop them while they are still warm.

Stovetop Method

Steps to Make It

1. Preheat Pan:

   • Heat a large cast iron or stainless steel pan over medium-high heat.

2. Toast Walnuts:

   • Add the walnuts to the hot, dry pan, ensuring they are in a single layer. Cook, stirring frequently, until the walnuts start to brown and smell toasted, about 5 minutes.

3. Cool Walnuts:

   • Transfer the toasted walnuts to a plate or baking sheet to cool in a single layer. This helps them cool evenly and finish toasting from residual heat. Chop while warm if needed.

How to Store Toasted Walnuts

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or sealed bag for up to 2 weeks.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 months.

Ways to Use Toasted Walnuts

• Pear Salad with Walnuts and Gorgonzola
• Homemade Granola
• Nut Rice Pilaf
• Brussels Sprouts with Walnuts
• Broccoli Walnut Pasta
• Coffee Walnut Snack Cake
• Kentucky Derby Chocolate Walnut Pie

How to Tell if Walnuts Have Gone Bad

• Smell: Fresh toasted walnuts will smell nutty. Rancid walnuts will have an unpleasant smell similar to paint thinner.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 170
• Fat: 17g
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 4g

Enjoy your toasted walnuts in a variety of dishes or as a delicious snack on their own!