My darling friend, Jackie, came over for a visit yesterday.  It was a perfect rainy day date that involved some much needed catching up and a little yoga for Jackie and Georgia (Jax-her cobra pose is looking amazing today 😉 )  She was planning to be here over lunch and being the procrastinator that I am I had nothing planned to serve.  I had all of the fixings for a salad but needed something to add to make it special and not so “thrown together”.  These maple walnuts were just the perfect touch.  They are such an awesome addition to any salad but my favorite way to serve them is with mixed greens, bleu cheese, sliced apple and balsamic vinaigrette.  They literally take less than five minutes to make and turn a pretty simple salad into an exceptional one.  On another note, if you are looking for the perfect homemade hostess gift these are the perfect fit.  They are so versatile; add some cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a different twist.  Top them on a salad, nosh on them alone for a sweet treat…or dare I say it?  On top of vanilla ice cream.  Mouth officially watering.  

Maple Walnuts

barely adapted from this recipe

Ingredients

2 Cups Walnuts

1/3 Cup Pure Maple Syrup

1/4 Teaspoon Sea Salt

Directions 

Grease a piece of parchment paper with cooking spray or coconut oil; set aside.  Heat a non stick skillet over medium high heat. Add all ingredients and cook, stirring frequently until syrup is caramelized, about three minutes.  Spread on to prepared parchment to cool completely.  Makes 2 cups