If you are looking for the perfect gift to bring to a holiday party, one that is festive and indulgent, but also healthy, easy to make and won't break the bank, these Maple Glazed Walnuts are the answer. I make a big batch of them every holiday season. I pack them up in pretty jars, wrapped with ribbon and I have the all around ideal present. They are positively addictive to eat on their own. They make a glorious addition to a cheese tray, and they are delightful on top of whipped sweet potatoes or sprinkled in salad.

Maple-Glazed Walnuts

2 cups walnut halves

1⁄3 cup pure maple syrup

1⁄8 teaspoon salt

Preheat a dry medium skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the walnuts, maple syrup, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently until the syrup is caramelized and the nuts are toasted, about 3 minutes. Let cool. The nuts will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

SERVES 6

Makes 2 cups;
Serving size: 1⁄3 cup

Per Serving

Calories: 265;
Total fat: 22g
            Mono: 3g,
            Poly: 16g;
            Sat: 2g,
Protein: 5g;
Carb: 16.5g;
Fiber: 2g;
Chol: 0mg;
Sodium: 51mg

Excellent source of copper, manganese

Good source of magnesium, molybdenum, phosphorus, protein, zinc