(Family Features) With more than half of Americans willing to eat more plants and less meat according to a study conducted by Yale and Earth Day Network, one thing holds true: Even when food is better for you and the planet, families crave quality taste. One of the best ways to have a plant-based meal that is still flavorful is to use nuts instead of meat. Nuts have protein and have more of a meat vibe than other plant-based foods and one of the most nutritious nuts are walnuts.
Walnuts are one of the original plant-based superfoods that can carry sweet or savory flavors to satisfy snackers, add hearty crunch to salads or breakfast dishes and serve as a simple, whole-food meat alternative. In addition to being a delicious plant-based staple, 1 ounce of walnuts contains important nutrients including 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber and good fats with 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat and 13 grams of polyunsaturated fat, including 2.5 grams of omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Try walnuts as an alternative to meat in recipes like Walnut “Chorizo” Tacos or Sweet Potato Walnut Falafel Bowls. Find more plant-based walnut recipes at walnuts.org/plant-based.
Sweet Potato Walnut Falafel Bowls
This sweet potato walnut falafel bowl recipe is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: heart, flavorful, nourishing, and surprisingly easy to make. Crispy falafel made with sweet potatoes and walnuts brings a delicious twist to the classic recipe, adding a naturally sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh veggies, fluffy grains, and a creamy drizzle of sauce. One bite, and you’ll see why this walnut falafel bowl recipe deserve a spot in your regular weekly meal rotation.
Walnut “Chorizo” Tacos
If you are looking for a bold, flavor-packed twist on taco night, these walnut “chorizo” tacos are about to become your new favorite recipe. Made with finely chopped walnuts, smoky chorizo spices, and just the right amount of heat, this plant-based chorizo brings all the savory flavor you expect, without the meat.
SOURCE: California Walnuts
