5 Times to Splurge and Use Nut Oils

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterCulinary Producer at The Kitchn
I'm a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn's Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I've authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
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published May 28, 2015
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Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest differences. So, the next time you want to treat yourself to a meal or snack that’s just a little more special, consider opting for a flavorful nut oil in place of your regular olive or coconut oil.

Nut oils have a flavorful and very distinct taste, along with the ability to really make a dish shine. Whether you go for walnut, hazelnut, pistachio, or almond oil, you really can’t go wrong. Here are my five favorite times to use nut oil.

Some nut oils have a low smoke point, so while they can be used in cooking, I think they stand out a little better when used in room-temperature dishes, and as a finishing oil.

There are quite a few ways nut oils can be used, but these are my five favorites.

1. Dressing a salad.

Toss salad greens with a drizzle of nut oil, a pinch of salt, and some fresh-ground black pepper, or use the oil to make a flavorful vinaigrette. Either way, swapping olive oil for your favorite kind of nut oil will really make your salad stand out.

→ Recipe: Green Salad with Walnut Oil, Celery, and Radishes

2. Drizzling over a bowl of creamy soup.

Whether your soup is hot or cold, a small drizzle of nut oil adds a special and flavorful finishing touch.

3. Finishing a bowl of hummus or dip.

A drizzle of nut oil over the top of your hummus or dip not only makes it look nice, but it adds another layer of delicious flavor.

→ How To Make Hummus from Scratch

4. Tossing with cooked pasta.

Skip the sauce and toss cooked pasta with walnut or hazelnut oil, chopped nuts, and some grated Parmesan cheese. You can also use it in your favorite pasta salad.

→ Recipe: Broccoli and Feta Pasta Salad (substitute your favorite nut oil)

5. Drizzling over Greek yogurt.

Now this is a sweet and savory breakfast or snack that I could totally get used to: a bowl of Greek yogurt with fresh fruit, topped with a drizzle of nut oil.

What’s your favorite way to use nut oil?

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