Health
Why California Walnuts Deserve Fridge Space
Health Points
- Walnuts provide protein, fiber, good fats, and antioxidants that support heart, brain, gut, and bone health.
- Storing walnuts in the fridge preserves their freshness and nutrient quality.
- Walnuts add flavor, texture, and nutrition to a wide variety of meals and snacks.
When you envision a nourishing fridge, you might think of produce and whole grains, but walnuts have earned a spot in your wellness lineup. These flavorful nuts go well beyond baked treats, offering age-friendly nutrition and versatility for your everyday meals.
“Walnuts have long been a staple in baking because of their rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch, which add depth and texture to a wide range of sweet treats,” says Lauren Manaker, RDN.
Today, more people are reaching for California walnuts to boost their intake of protein, fiber, and beneficial fats. California walnuts, cultivated across generations on family farms, pack four grams of protein, two grams of fiber, and 18 grams of mainly unsaturated fats per ounce.
Walnuts are also the only tree nut with a rich supply of plant-based omega-3 ALA fatty acids, known for supporting heart and brain health, and for easing inflammation. Their magnesium, copper, manganese, and antioxidant content also add to their wellness edge.
Many are surprised to learn that walnuts can benefit gut health by helping good probiotic bacteria thrive and by supporting a happy digestive system.
Another reason to keep walnuts on hand? Keeping them in the refrigerator, not the pantry, is best for freshness, according to Manaker. “Walnuts contain good fats that can spoil or turn rancid when exposed to warm temperatures for too long. Refrigeration helps slow this process by keeping those oils stable, ensuring the nuts stay fresh and tasty for much longer,” she says.
California walnuts’ farm-fresh quality comes from generations of commitment to clean, delicious food with no unnecessary additives.
If you’re ready to shake up your menu, walnuts are great as a snack, blended into creamy sauces, or tossed on breakfast oats. Manaker suggests sprinkling them over salads, roasted veggies, or using them in place of breadcrumbs. Feeling adventurous? Try spiced walnut “meat” tacos for a satisfying, plant-powered meal.
Bring more flavor and benefits to your kitchen with the simple addition of walnuts to your favorite dishes.