Mostly due to their brain shape, walnuts symbolise fecundity (the intellectual productivity of a creative imagination) and fruitfulness and are a potent symbol of masculinity. Their edible seeds are considered a high density source of nutrients; containing high quality protein, lots of vitamins (especially E) and minerals as well as dietary fibres and fatty acids. According to scientists, walnuts contain the highest level of antioxidants, compared to other nuts (peanuts, almonds, pecans and pistachios). In order to get the full effectiveness of the antioxidants as roasting them reduces the quality of antioxidants.
Recipe ideas:
o Indulge yourselves to Greek breakfast adding walnuts and honey to your with yoghurt.
o Sprinkle them over green salads and pizzas, for texture and crunch. When combined with goats’ cheese or with spinach and blue cheese, the result is just brilliant.
o Add them in healthy smoothies, muesli or soups.
o Prepare baklava with a mix of pistachios and walnuts.
Did you know?
• About 25g of walnuts daily consists 90% of the recommended daily dosage of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory qualities as well.
• China is the largest producer/importer of walnuts.
• The Nutcracker is the absolute symbol for Christmas.
• According to the traditional Cretan wedding, the couple drinks sweet red wine from the same glass & eats honey with walnuts (for strength & fertility) from the same spoon; a ritual that symbolises that from now on the couple will share everything in life.
