I received free samples of California Walnuts mentioned in this post. By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by California Walnuts and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
TGIF gang! It is Friday, right?! Right now I’m very thankful for technology because it’s how we’re able to “stay connected” with family and friends. Weekly virtual happy hours help break up our life-from-home routine where the days blur together. The virtual-thing is not exactly the perfect substitute for our normal Friday get-together at our neighborhood watering hole, but I’ll take what I can get.
Just like there are moments lately when I feel the need to put on “real clothes” and “look more presentable,” there are moments when I feel the same way about my snacks for our virtual hang-outs. I mean, why not get a little fancy to celebrate getting through another week of quarantine? These easy to make rosemary walnut crackers will definitely elevate the flavor and specialness of your next happy hour nosh, virtual or not.
If you’ve read this blog before then you know I am a snacker of all things salty and savory whereas Renato craves sweet snacks. Slight sidebar: According to 23andme, your preference for sweet or savory snacks is partially built into our DNA. 23andMe researchers have identified 43 genetic markers (DNA locations) associated with preference for sweet or salty snacks. Pretty neat.
OK, back on track here. For happy hour Renato is in charge of drinks (Negorni’s this time) and I’m in charge of the eats and charcuterie platters have been on repeat. The bite-sized combinations of meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruits are a perfect snack or light meal. It’s a way healthier nosh than say the bag of Munchies sitting in my pantry.
Did you know that a handful of California walnuts is a versatile snack and can satisfy any taste preference, from savory to sweet? Regardless of your flavor preference, walnuts are the only nut to provide an excellent source of the plant-based omega-3 ALA (2.5g/oz). They also contain 4 g/oz protein and 2 g/oz fiber.
Well, for this week’s virtual happy hour I was inspired to turn the nuts into a tasty delivery device for the rest of the platter. Thus, these rosemary walnut crackers were born. The recipe uses strictly items from my pantry. And while the ingredients are simple, these crackers will make you feel just a little bit fancy and give you a sense of accomplishment too. (I might not be baking bread, but I still baked something.) I chose rosemary as my herb of choice because one, I think rosemary pairs well with walnuts, and two, I have a ton of dried rosemary. Feel free to use whatever dried herb you have in your cabinet.
These crackers are a terrific addition to your cheese platter. We especially loved topping them with Parmesan and a dollop of fig jam.
So, go ahead and make these crackers, arrange a pretty charcuterie platter for yourself, put your beverage into a fancy glass, and cheers to getting through the day/week/month.
Rosemary Walnut Crackers
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 sea salt
Directions
- Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
In a food processor, pulse the chopped walnuts until finely ground. - Add the ground walnuts into a medium-sized bowl along with the flour, baking powder, dried rosemary, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Stir until well combined and the dough gathers itself into a ball.
- Turn out dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a 1.5-in. round cutter to cut out discs and place on the lined trays about half an inch apart. Repeat with the remaining dough and any offcuts.
- Sprinkle the crackers with the seat salt.
- Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, swapping the trays around halfway through baking, or until golden around the edges. Cool on the trays.
- Serve and enjoy. You can store extra crackers in an airtight container for 3-5 days.
