Dried cherries and walnuts are a match made in culinary heaven. Their perfect balance of tart sweetness and rich crunch adds depth to both sweet and savory dishes. Whether we’re baking, tossing salads, or creating hearty snacks, these two ingredients bring vibrant flavor and texture to every bite.
Incorporating dried cherries and walnuts into our recipes not only enhances taste but also boosts nutrition. Packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, they make our meals more satisfying and wholesome. Let’s explore some delicious recipes that showcase the versatility and charm of this dynamic duo.
Recipes With Dried Cherries And Walnuts
Discovering delicious ways to combine dried cherries and walnuts unlocks a world of flavor and nutrition. Below we share carefully crafted recipes that highlight their bold, tangy-sweet profiles balanced by rich, crunchy walnuts. Each recipe includes precise steps to guide us in creating memorable dishes.
1. Dried Cherry Walnut Salad
A refreshing salad bursting with texture and bold tastes. Perfect as a light lunch or side.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, diced
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
Steps:
- Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, dried cherries, red onion, and diced apple.
- Add toasted walnuts and crumbled goat cheese.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
2. Cherry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies
Homemade cookies that blend chewy dried cherries with crunchy walnuts for a perfect snack.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/4 cups |
| Rolled oats | 1 cup |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (softened) |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Dried cherries | 3/4 cup |
| Chopped walnuts | 3/4 cup |
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter with both sugars until fluffy.
- Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring well.
- Fold in dried cherries and walnuts.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Cool on wire racks before serving.
3. Savory Cherry Walnut Chicken Salad
A satisfyingly savory and sweet chicken salad ideal for sandwiches or wraps.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
- Stir in dried cherries, chopped walnuts, celery, and green onions.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Mix thoroughly until ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving on bread or lettuce wraps.
Nutritional Snapshot: Dried Cherries and Walnuts
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Antioxidants | Fight free radicals, reduce inflammation |
| Healthy fats | Support heart health and brain function |
| Fiber | Improve digestion and promote satiety |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Boost immunity and overall wellness |
Incorporating dried cherries and walnuts brings not only a delightful flavor combination but also a powerful nutritional boost.
“The richness of walnuts paired with the tart sweetness of dried cherries creates a harmony of flavors that elevate any dish.”
Use these recipes as a starting point and adapt them to our taste and preferences to keep enjoying this versatile and wholesome pairing.
Ingredients
To craft delightful recipes with dried cherries and walnuts, we start with staple pantry items held in common, then explore the unique ingredients tailor-made for each dish. This ensures we capture the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Common Ingredients for All Recipes
These foundational ingredients form the base of our culinary creations, highlighting the vibrant tartness of dried cherries and the rich crunch of walnuts:
- Dried cherries – Typically about 1 cup, chopped or whole depending on recipe texture preference.
- Walnuts – 3/4 to 1 cup, chopped to release natural oils and enhance crunch.
- All-purpose flour – Foundational for baked goods and binding components.
- Brown sugar – Adds depth and mellow sweetness.
- Butter – Provides richness and moisture.
- Eggs – Acts as binding and leavening support.
- Baking soda/powder – Leavening agents for baked recipes.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Specific Ingredients for Each Recipe
Each dish adds distinct components that elevate the pairing of dried cherries and walnuts to unique culinary heights. Below is a summary to guide our ingredient preparations:
| Recipe | Specific Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dried Cherry Walnut Salad | Mixed greens, goat cheese, red onion, balsamic vinegar, olive oil | Fresh and tangy components for brightness |
| Cherry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies | Rolled oats, vanilla extract, cinnamon, raisins | Adds texture, aroma, and complementary sweetness |
| Cherry Walnut Chicken Salad | Cooked chicken breast, celery, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice | Creamy and zesty for balanced savory notes |
By organizing ingredients this way, we maintain clarity while highlighting the versatility and nutritional richness of the dried cherries and walnuts combination.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To create our delicious recipes with dried cherries and walnuts, having the right tools and equipment is essential. These items ensure precision, ease, and consistency throughout the cooking process.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement ensures the perfect balance of flavors.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping walnuts and slicing other ingredients finely.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to prepare our nuts and fruits safely.
- Baking Sheets: Non-stick or lined with parchment paper, ideal for baking cookies or toasting walnuts.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: To blend ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Spatula: For folding dried cherries and walnuts into batters or salads gently.
- Colander or Sieve: To rinse and drain any fresh ingredients if needed.
- Oven or Toaster Oven: For roasting walnuts to enhance flavor or baking desserts.
- Food Processor (Optional): Useful for finely chopping walnuts quickly or mixing dough evenly.
Additional Equipment for Specific Recipes
| Recipe | Additional Tools Needed |
|---|---|
| Cherry Walnut Salad | Salad spinner, serving tongs |
| Cherry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies | Cooling rack |
| Cherry Walnut Chicken Salad | Mixing spoon, refrigerator |
Important Reminders
“Precision in tools leads to perfection in taste.”
We recommend ensuring all equipment is clean and dry before use to maintain the integrity of the dried cherries and walnuts flavor. Toasting walnuts on a baking sheet before use deeply enhances their aromatic, nutty taste, making this simple tool indispensable.
By assembling these tools ahead of time, we streamline our cooking process, allowing a smooth flow from preparation to plating. This setup guarantees our baked goods and dishes highlight the unique complement of dried cherries and walnuts perfectly.
Recipe 1: Dried Cherry and Walnut Salad
This vibrant Dried Cherry and Walnut Salad combines the rich crunch of walnuts with the sweet tartness of dried cherries. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes for a refreshing and nutritious dish.
Prep
- Dried cherries – 1 cup, roughly chopped
- Walnuts – 3/4 cup, toasted and coarsely chopped
- Mixed salad greens – 5 cups (arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- Goat cheese – 4 ounces, crumbled
- Red onion – 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Cucumber – 1 medium, sliced into half-moons
- Extra virgin olive oil – 3 tablespoons
- Balsamic vinegar – 2 tablespoons
- Honey – 1 teaspoon
- Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Toast Walnuts: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts, stirring frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool.
- Prepare Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, toss mixed greens, dried cherries, toasted walnuts, red onion, cucumber, and crumbled goat cheese.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve immediately as a standalone lunch or light dinner.
- Pair with crusty whole-grain bread or warm flatbread to complement the salad’s fresh flavors.
- Add grilled chicken or salmon to boost protein for a heartier meal.
- Garnish with additional toasted walnuts and a few fresh dried cherries for a visually appealing presentation.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Dried cherries | 1 cup | Roughly chopped |
| Walnuts | 3/4 cup | Toasted, coarsely chopped |
| Mixed salad greens | 5 cups | Washed and dried |
| Goat cheese | 4 ounces | Crumbled |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup | Thinly sliced |
| Cucumber | 1 medium | Sliced into half-moons |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons | – |
| Balsamic vinegar | 2 tablespoons | – |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon | – |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | – |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | – |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Recipe 2: Cherry Walnut Granola Bars
These Cherry Walnut Granola Bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors combined with a satisfying crunch. They make an excellent snack for any time of day, packed with the wholesome goodness of dried cherries and walnuts.
Prep
To prepare our granola bars, gather the following ingredients and prepare as specified:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts, toasted
- ½ cup dried cherries, chopped
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, mix the oats, toasted walnuts, chopped dried cherries, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir thoroughly to combine.
Baking Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Transfer the granola mixture into the pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and avoid cutting while hot to prevent crumbling.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | – | Essential for even baking |
| Toast walnuts | Medium heat | 5 minutes | Until fragrant |
| Bake granola bars | 350°F (175°C) | 20-25 mins | Edges golden, center set |
Cooling and Storing
- Allow the granola bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack—this usually takes about 1 hour. Cooling ensures the bars firm up properly for clean slicing.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, wrap the bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro tip: To enjoy the full flavor of the dried cherries and walnuts, let the bars sit for a few hours after baking before cutting and serving. This allows the ingredients to meld perfectly.
Recipe 3: Dried Cherry and Walnut Chicken
This Dried Cherry and Walnut Chicken recipe combines the sweet tartness of dried cherries with the rich crunch of walnuts to elevate a simple chicken dish into a flavorful masterpiece. Let’s dive into the precise preparation and cooking techniques to bring out the best in this savory pairing.
Prep
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/3 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation steps:
- Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
- Chop dried cherries and finely dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Gather all ingredients at your workstation for efficient cooking.
Cooking Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Pour in chicken broth and white wine (if using). Scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and loosen browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in chopped dried cherries, toasted walnuts, balsamic vinegar, and thyme. Cook for 2–3 minutes until cherries soften slightly and sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to skillet and coat with sauce. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors and reheat chicken.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Best Flavor
- Toast walnuts gently and watch attentively to maximize their nutty flavor without burning.
- Use fresh thyme for a brighter herbal note; dried thyme works well if fresh is unavailable.
- Let the dried cherries soak in warm chicken broth for 5 minutes before cooking if you prefer a plumper, juicier texture.
- Substitute white wine with extra chicken broth if avoiding alcohol.
- For a richer sauce, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter at the end, stirring until melted.
| Cooking Temperature & Time | Notes |
|---|---|
| Medium-high heat | To brown chicken evenly |
| 5-6 minutes per side | Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F |
| Medium heat | For sautéing onions and deglazing skillet |
| 2-3 minutes | To soften cherries and thicken sauce |
Recipe 4: Cherry Walnut Bread
This Cherry Walnut Bread offers a perfect blend of sweet tart dried cherries and crunchy toasted walnuts. It’s a delightful treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack that highlights the robust flavor combination we love.
Prep
Before we begin preparing the dough, let’s gather and prepare all the ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- ¾ cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
Preparation tips:
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. This step releases their oils enhancing crunch and flavor.
- Chop dried cherries roughly to ensure even distribution.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Dough Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with flour mixture. Mix until just combined—do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in the chopped dried cherries and toasted walnuts gently to evenly distribute them without breaking their texture.
Baking Instructions
- Pour the prepared dough into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated 350°F oven for 55-65 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve slightly warm or at room temperature, enjoying the rich nutty aroma and bursts of cherry sweetness.
| Temperature | Time | Pan Size |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 55-65 minutes baking | 9×5 inch loaf pan |
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Dried Cherry and Walnut Recipes
Proper preparation and storage are essential to preserve the vibrant flavors and textures of our dried cherry and walnut recipes. Here are practical tips to help us plan ahead and keep our dishes fresh and delicious.
Make-Ahead Strategies
- Toast walnuts in advance. Toasted walnuts deepen in flavor, and toasting them ahead saves time during meal prep. Store them in an airtight container once cooled to preserve their crunch.
- Chop dried cherries and walnuts separately. Pre-chopped ingredients make mixing faster and ensure even distribution.
- Prepare dressings and sauces early. For recipes like the Dried Cherry Walnut Salad or Cherry Walnut Chicken, creating dressings or sauces up to 24 hours ahead enhances the melding of flavors.
- Bake breads and bars ahead of time. Cherry Walnut Bread and Granola Bars can be baked up to 3 days before serving. Wrap tightly to maintain moisture.
Storage Guidelines
| Ingredient / Dish | Storage Method | Refrigeration | Freezing Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toasted walnuts | Airtight container | No | Up to 3 months | Keep away from heat and moisture to prevent rancidity. |
| Chopped dried cherries | Airtight container | No | Up to 6 months | Cool, dry place preferred. |
| Prepared dressings/sauces | Sealed jar or container | Yes | Up to 1 week | Shake well before use. |
| Salad with dressing | Separate containers | Yes | Up to 1 day | Combine just before serving for best texture. |
| Cherry Walnut Bread | Wrapped in foil/plastic | Yes | Up to 1 month | Wrap well to avoid freezer burn. |
| Granola Bars | Airtight container or wrap | No | Up to 2 months | Store in a cool dry place. |
| Dried Cherry Walnut Chicken | Airtight refrigerated dish | Yes | Up to 3 days | Freeze if storing longer; thaw in fridge overnight. |
Essential Reminders for Storage Success
“Our dried cherry must stay dry to avoid spoilage and our walnuts must be kept airtight to maintain their natural oils and crunch.”
- Avoid storing walnuts near foods with strong odors; they absorb smells easily.
- Always cool baked goods entirely before wrapping or refrigerating to prevent sogginess.
- For salads and dishes mixing fresh ingredients, keep components separate and combine just before serving to preserve freshness and texture.
- Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness and reduce waste.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we ensure each bite of our dried cherry and walnut recipes retains its optimal flavor and crunch, making our culinary experience both convenient and delightful.
Conclusion
Exploring recipes with dried cherries and walnuts opens up a world of flavorful and nutritious possibilities. Their unique combination brings both sweetness and crunch that elevate everyday meals and snacks. Whether we’re baking, tossing salads, or cooking savory dishes, these ingredients add depth and satisfaction.
By incorporating dried cherries and walnuts into our cooking, we not only enjoy delicious flavors but also boost our meals with antioxidants and healthy fats. With a little preparation and the right tools, creating these dishes becomes effortless and rewarding. Let’s keep experimenting and savoring the rich taste and health benefits this dynamic duo offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of combining dried cherries and walnuts in recipes?
Combining dried cherries and walnuts enhances both flavor and nutrition. Their sweet-tart cherries and crunchy walnuts add complementary textures, while providing antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber, boosting the overall health value of dishes.
Can dried cherries and walnuts be used in both sweet and savory dishes?
Yes, this pairing works well in sweet recipes like cookies and bread, as well as savory dishes such as salads and chicken, making it a versatile addition to your cooking.
What are some popular recipes that use dried cherries and walnuts together?
Popular recipes include Dried Cherry Walnut Salad, Cherry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies, Cherry Walnut Chicken, Cherry Walnut Bread, and Cherry Walnut Granola Bars, all showcasing the flavor and texture combination.
What ingredients are commonly used alongside dried cherries and walnuts?
Common complementary ingredients include all-purpose flour, butter, goat cheese, rolled oats, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and fresh fruits or greens depending on the recipe.
Why should walnuts be toasted before use?
Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch, making them taste richer and more aromatic in your dishes.
What kitchen tools are essential for preparing these recipes?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, sharp knives, baking sheets, and for some recipes, additional equipment like food processors or spatulas.
How can I store dried cherries and walnuts to keep them fresh?
Store dried cherries in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Keep walnuts sealed tightly and refrigerated or frozen to avoid rancidity and absorption of strong odors.
Are there any make-ahead tips for these recipes?
Yes, toasting walnuts in advance, chopping ingredients separately, and preparing dressings early can save time and enhance flavors when cooking.
Is it possible to customize these recipes?
Absolutely! You can adjust ingredient quantities, substitute with similar nuts or dried fruits, and tailor spices or dressings to suit your taste preferences.
What nutritional benefits do dried cherries and walnuts offer?
Dried cherries provide antioxidants and fiber, while walnuts offer healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, making the combination beneficial for heart health and digestion.