15 Turkey Day Recipe Ideas With Walnuts

15 Turkey Day Recipe Ideas With Walnuts

Walnut-Crusted Roast Turkey

walnut crusted roast turkey recipe

Walnut-Crusted Roast Turkey is a festive and flavorful dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. The combination of roasted turkey enveloped in a crunchy walnut crust provides a delightful texture and nutty flavor that elevates this classic dish, making it a memorable centerpiece for your holiday feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole turkey 1 (14-16 pounds)
Olive oil 1/4 cup
Salt 2 teaspoons
Black pepper 1 teaspoon
Fresh sage, chopped 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme, chopped 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Walnuts, finely chopped 1 cup
Breadcrumbs 1 cup
Egg 1, beaten
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Prepare the turkey by patting it dry and rubbing it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
  3. In a bowl, combine chopped walnuts, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic, and parsley; mix well.
  4. Press the walnut mixture firmly onto the turkey’s skin, covering as much as possible.
  5. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a pan and roast for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving and serving.
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Maple-Walnut Glazed Carrots

maple walnut glazed carrots recipe

Maple-Walnut Glazed Carrots are a delightful side dish that brings together the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich flavor of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts. This vibrant dish not only complements the savory elements of your Thanksgiving feast but also adds a pop of color and a touch of elegance to your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots 2 pounds
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Walnuts, chopped 1/2 cup
Butter 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Fresh thyme, chopped 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Peel and slice the carrots into uniform pieces.
  2. In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the carrots; cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  3. Drain the carrots and return them to the pan.
  4. Add butter, maple syrup, salt, and pepper; stir to coat.
  5. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, allowing the mixture to glaze the carrots.
  6. Stir in the chopped walnuts and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute before serving.
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Walnut and Cranberry Stuffing

walnut cranberry stuffing recipe

Walnut and Cranberry Stuffing is a flavorful and hearty addition to your Thanksgiving spread. This delightful stuffing combines the nutty richness of walnuts with the tartness of cranberries, creating a balanced dish that pairs perfectly with turkey or as a standalone vegetarian option.

Ingredients Quantity
Bread cubes (preferably day-old) 10 cups
Walnuts, chopped 1 cup
Dried cranberries 1 cup
Onion, diced 1 medium
Celery, diced 2 stalks
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Butter 4 tablespoons
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Fresh thyme, chopped 1 tablespoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until softened.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, walnuts, cranberries, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread mixture, then add vegetable broth gradually until everything is moistened but not soggy.
  5. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden.
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Savory Walnut and Mushroom Gravy

savory walnut mushroom gravy

Savory Walnut and Mushroom Gravy is a rich and hearty sauce that adds depth to your Thanksgiving dinner table. This delectable gravy features earthy mushrooms and crunchy walnuts, creating a perfect complement for turkey, mashed potatoes, or any side dishes, while also being an ideal option for those looking for a vegetarian alternative.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Mushrooms, sliced 8 oz
Onion, diced 1 small
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Walnuts, chopped 1/2 cup
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Soy sauce 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch 1 tablespoon
Water 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme, chopped 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
  2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
  3. Stir in chopped walnuts, then add vegetable broth and soy sauce.
  4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry; add to the gravy while stirring to thicken.
  5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper, then simmer for a few more minutes before serving.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Walnuts

roasted brussels sprouts walnuts recipe

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Walnuts is a delicious and nutritious side dish perfect for your Thanksgiving table. The combination of crispy roasted Brussels sprouts and crunchy toasted walnuts creates a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and flavorful. This simple yet elegant dish will enhance your holiday spread and is easy to prepare.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts, halved 1 lb
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Walnuts, chopped 1/2 cup
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  5. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, add the chopped walnuts to the baking sheet to toast them lightly.
  6. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving, mixing well to combine. Enjoy!
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Sweet Potato Casserole With Walnut Topping

sweet potato casserole recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole with Walnut Topping is a classic Thanksgiving dish that offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The smooth, creamy sweet potato base is elevated by a crunchy walnut topping, making it a delightful addition to your holiday table. This dish not only provides comfort and warmth but also wow your guests with its delicious taste.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 3 lbs
Butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Milk 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Walnuts, chopped 1 cup
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them in a mixing bowl.
  3. In the bowl, mix in the butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, and salt until well combined and smooth.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture over the sweet potato layer.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbly. Enjoy!
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Creamy Walnut Coleslaw

crunchy walnut coleslaw recipe

Creamy Walnut Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that brings a delightful crunch to your Thanksgiving table. This coleslaw combines crisp cabbage with a creamy dressing, enhancing the flavors with the rich texture of walnuts. It’s an excellent complement to rich turkey and savory dishes, providing a perfect balance in every bite.

Ingredients Quantity
Green cabbage, shredded 4 cups
Carrots, shredded 1 cup
Mayonnaise 1/2 cup
Greek yogurt 1/4 cup
Apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons
Sugar 1 tablespoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Walnuts, chopped 1 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Fold in the chopped walnuts and parsley (if using).
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!
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Walnut and Feta Cheese Salad

thanksgiving walnut feta salad

Walnut and Feta Cheese Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for Thanksgiving. This salad combines crisp greens with the creaminess of feta cheese, the crunch of walnuts, and a tangy dressing that brings all the flavors together. It’s a wonderful addition to your holiday table, offering a fresh contrast to heavier traditional fare.

Ingredients Quantity
Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce) 6 cups
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup
Cucumber, sliced 1 medium
Red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 medium
Feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup
Walnuts, toasted 1/2 cup
Olive oil 1/4 cup
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts on top.
  5. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy!
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Pumpkin-Walnut Bread Pudding

pumpkin walnut bread pudding

Pumpkin-Walnut Bread Pudding is a delightful and comforting dessert that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin pie with the rich texture of bread pudding. Perfect for Thanksgiving, this dish is an excellent way to use up leftover bread and provide a cozy end to your holiday meal. The addition of walnuts brings a crunchy contrast to the creamy custard base, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Quantity
Bread (stale or day-old, cubed) 6 cups
Pumpkin puree 2 cups
Milk 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Eggs 3 large
Brown sugar 3/4 cup
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Walnuts, chopped 1 cup
Butter (for greasing) as needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
  3. Stir in the cubed bread and chopped walnuts, ensuring the bread is fully coated in the custard mixture.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it rest for about 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
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Chocolate Walnut Pie

indulgent chocolate walnut pie

Chocolate Walnut Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the deep flavors of chocolate with the crunchy texture of walnuts. This pie is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a deliciously decadent alternative to traditional pumpkin and pecan pies. With its chocolate filling and nutty topping, it’s sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers at your holiday gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 (9-inch)
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Eggs 3 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Walnuts, chopped 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together, stirring until smooth.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
  4. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate mixture until fully combined.
  5. Fold in the chopped walnuts, then pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
  6. Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
  7. Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream!

Walnut-Dusted Mashed Potatoes

walnut dusted mashed potatoes delight

Walnut-Dusted Mashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic mashed potato dish, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the creamy potatoes. This side dish pairs perfectly with your Thanksgiving turkey or any holiday meal, making it a comforting and satisfying addition to the table.

Ingredients Quantity
Potatoes (russet or Yukon gold) 2 pounds
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
Heavy cream or milk 1/2 cup
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Chopped walnuts 1 cup
Fresh chives (optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Peel and chop the potatoes into even pieces. Boil in salted water until tender.
  2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with butter, heavy cream (or milk), salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Stir in the chopped walnuts, reserving some for garnish.
  4. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle with reserved walnuts and chives, if using.
  5. Serve warm as a delightful side dish. Enjoy!

Apple Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash

apple walnut stuffed squash

Apple Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash is a wonderfully seasonal dish that blends the sweetness of apples with the earthiness of acorn squash. This dish not only adds a burst of color to your Thanksgiving table but also packs a flavorful punch with the addition of cinnamon and walnuts, making it both a stunning and nutritious centerpiece for your holiday meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Acorn squash 2 medium
Apples (firm, like Granny Smith) 2 cups, diced
Chopped walnuts 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted butter 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup (optional) For drizzling

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
  2. Brush the inside of the squash with melted butter and sprinkle with salt. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sauté until the apples are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove the squash from the oven, flip them cut-side up, and fill with the apple-walnut mixture.
  5. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired before serving warm. Enjoy!

Spiced Walnuts for Snacking

spiced walnuts snack recipe

Spiced Walnuts for Snacking are a delicious and addictive treat perfect for your Thanksgiving gathering. These crunchy walnuts are enhanced with a blend of spices, making them a flavorful snack that pairs perfectly with cocktails or can be served as a delightful appetizer. Easy to prepare, they will tempt your guests to keep coming back for more!

Ingredients Quantity
Walnut halves 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Brown sugar 1 tablespoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Fresh rosemary (optional) 1 teaspoon, finely chopped

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine walnut halves with olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper; stir to coat.
  3. Spread the coated walnuts in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and golden.
  5. Let cool, adding fresh rosemary if desired, before serving. Enjoy your spiced walnuts!

Walnut and Pear Salad With Vinaigrette

elegant fruit and nut salad

Walnut and Pear Salad With Vinaigrette is a refreshing and elegant dish that brings together the sweetness of ripe pears, the crunch of spiced walnuts, and the vibrant flavors of a homemade vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for Thanksgiving as it adds a light and zesty touch to your holiday table, complementing the richer dishes typically served during the festivities.

Ingredients Quantity
Arugula or mixed greens 5 cups
Ripe pears (sliced) 2 medium
Spiced walnuts (from previous recipe) 1 cup
Crumbled goat cheese 1/2 cup
Red onion (thinly sliced) 1/4 medium
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons
Honey 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula or mixed greens with sliced pears and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Top with spiced walnuts and crumbled goat cheese before serving. Enjoy your Walnut and Pear Salad!

Caramel Walnut Tart

decadent caramel walnut dessert

Caramel Walnut Tart is a rich and decadent dessert that is sure to impress your Thanksgiving guests. With a buttery tart shell filled with sweet caramel and topped with crunchy walnuts, this tart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It offers a warm, comforting finish to your holiday meal, making it a delightful addition to your dessert table.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter (cold) 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Ice water 3-4 tablespoons
Brown sugar 1 cup
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Corn syrup 1/4 cup
Unsalted butter 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Chopped walnuts 1 1/2 cups
Sea salt for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a food processor, combine the flour, cold butter, sugar, and salt; pulse until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until the dough forms.
  3. Roll out the dough and fit it into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 20 minutes until golden.
  4. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and butter; cook over medium heat until boiling. Stir in vanilla and half of the walnuts.
  5. Pour the caramel mixture into the baked tart shell, and sprinkle the remaining walnuts on top.
  6. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbling and set. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving with a sprinkle of sea salt. Enjoy your Caramel Walnut Tart!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.