Walnuts vs Pecans: 3 Main Differences You Should Keep in Mind

Walnuts
Photo by Tom Hermans on Unsplash

Nuts come in many different shapes and forms, and some of them can be easily mistaken for others. That’s certainly the case with walnuts and pecans, which look quite similar at the first glance but come with several major differences you should keep in mind.

Different Taste

Walnuts and pecans may be visually similar, but you’ll notice a stark difference once you take a bite. Pecans tend to have a slightly sweeter taste, while walnuts are known for their bitter-ish flavor. They’re both delicious in their own right, and you can try roasting them to bring out the best in them.

Different Use

The differences between their flavor will determine how you’ll use walnuts and pecans in cooking. They can be swapped in some recipes, but it’s important to note that pecans’ sweet flavor is best paired with desserts, while walnuts go well with salads and cheeses.

Different Nutritional Properties

The main difference between walnuts and peanuts are there is their nutritional profile. They’re both pretty healthy when eaten in moderation and offer a slew of crucial vitamins and minerals, but walnuts are generally considered superior thanks to their high level of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and potassium.