These nuts contain significant amounts of polyunsaturated fats helpful in reducing cholesterol, particularly Omega-3 fatty acids — 2.57 grams in every ounce of nuts. Walnuts also contain vitamin E, thiamin, B6, folate, magnesium, copper and zinc.

This year's crop of California common walnuts (Juglans regia) was down 10 percent from last year's, which may explain the stiff prices. Nutmeats without shells are retailing for 45 to 50 cents an ounce (compared to macadamias at almost $1 an ounce), walnuts are a bit of an indulgence. Luckily, you can reduce the amount called for by half in most recipes (unless walnuts are the central ingredient, as in baklava or nut candies).