Simple Cherry & Walnut Snack Bowl
This simple and satisfying snack bowl combines the natural sweetness of fresh cherries with the earthy crunch of walnuts, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures for a quick energy boost and a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
For 1 serving
**Prepare Cherries:** Begin by thoroughly washing 1 cup of fresh cherries under cool running water. Gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
**Pit Cherries:** Using a cherry pitter, a small paring knife, or even a sturdy straw, carefully remove the pits from each cherry. If using a knife, slice the cherry in half and remove the pit. Discard the pits.
**Assemble Bowl:** Place the pitted cherries into a small, individual serving bowl, arranging them evenly.
**Add Walnuts:** Evenly scatter 1/4 cup of whole walnuts over and around the cherries in the bowl.
**Optional Seasoning:** If desired, take a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt and sprinkle it lightly over the cherries and walnuts. This small addition can amplify the flavors.
**Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your fresh, vibrant, and satisfying Cherry & Walnut Snack Bowl right away for the best texture and flavor experience.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Cherry Pitting Hack:** If you don't have a cherry pitter, a clean, empty wine bottle and a chopstick can work wonders. Place a cherry on the bottle opening and push the chopstick through the stem end to pop out the pit.
- 2**Walnut Freshness:** Store walnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent them from going rancid and to maintain their fresh, crisp texture and flavor.
- 3**Temperature Matters:** Chilled cherries are incredibly refreshing. If your cherries aren't already cold, consider refrigerating them for 30 minutes before assembling the snack bowl.
- 4**Portion Control:** While delicious, walnuts are calorie-dense. Stick to the recommended 1/4 cup serving for a balanced snack, or adjust according to your dietary needs.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut & Seed Boost
Add a mix of other nuts like pecans or almonds, or a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra omega-3s and fiber.
Fruity TwistFruity Twist
Combine cherries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or sliced peaches for a more diverse fruit profile.
Sweet DrizzleSweet Drizzle
For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle a teaspoon of honey, maple syrup, or a light balsamic glaze over the top.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cherries are packed with anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and protect against cellular damage.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid or ALA), which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol.
Supports Digestion
Both cherries and walnuts contribute dietary fiber, aiding in healthy digestion, promoting regularity, and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh cherries are ideal for texture, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the bowl to prevent a watery snack.
