Walnuts

History History The walnut is native to southeast Europe and west and central Asia. It is thought that the walnuts grown in North America gained the moniker “English walnuts,” since they were introduced into America via English merchant ships. Walnuts Today The English walnut is the most popular type in the United States and features a thinner shell that is easily broken with a nutcracker. Season, Ripeness and Storage State Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Arizona                         California                         In-Season   Season Walnuts are harvested in California from late August through November. Ripeness When purchasing whole walnuts that have not been shelled, choose those that feel heavy for their size. Storage Due to their high polyunsaturated fat content, walnuts are extremely perishable and care should be taken in their storage. Shelled walnuts should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator, where they will keep for six months, or the freezer, where they will last for one year. Unshelled walnuts should preferably be stored in the refrigerator, although as long as you keep them in a cool, dry, dark place they will stay fresh for up to six months.