Autumn has a way of bringing comfort food back to the table.

It’s the season of meals that fill the kitchen with warmth. The kind of nourishing, satisfying dishes made to be savoured as the temperature drops and the days shorten.

And at the heart of it all? Nuts.

Rich in flavour, with a satisfying crunch, nuts bring depth to autumn cooking. They shine in everything from creamy risottos to decadent sweet treats and nourishing snacks.

If you’re ready to embrace the flavours of the season, our autumn-inspired recipes – each starring nuts – are a delicious place to start!

Five recipes to try this autumn:

Cherry tomato, macadamia, walnut and silverbeet pasta

Fresh, vibrant and full of texture, this pasta dish offers a delicious twist on a weeknight classic. The best part? The golden, nutty crumble of macadamias, walnuts, and toasted breadcrumbs, which adds an irresistible crunch. A simple yet flavour-packed dish that brings comfort to the table!

Did you know? Nuts help reduce feelings of hunger, leading to lower calorie intake later. This is due, in part, to the fibre, protein and healthy fats nuts contain. 

Pumpkin, hazelnut and pine nut risotto

This creamy, flavourful risotto is the kind of dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Toasted hazelnuts and pine nuts add a satisfying crunch that perfectly balances the sweet pumpkin base. Finished with herbs and a touch of cheese, this cosy meal is ideal for this time of year.

Tip: Roast the seeds from your pumpkin, at around 180C for 10-15 minutes. Once cooled, store in an airtight container and enjoy mixed with nuts for a crunchy, nutrient-dense snack.

Braised chicken with chestnuts

Mushrooms, ginger and chestnuts come together in this comforting Asian-style dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for the end of a long day. As they braise, the chestnuts soak up the delicious, rich flavours of the stock. Best served steaming hot with a bowl of rice.

Tip: Fresh chestnuts are harvested in Autumn. This means they are at their in-season best over the next few months (from mid-March to mid-July).

Did you know? Nuts are a great source of fibre – led by chestnuts at around 15g per 100g. Almonds and hazelnuts round out the top three nuts for fibre. Where possible, choose nuts with their skin on, for an extra fibre boost.

Almond brittle

Nutty brittle is often made with peanuts, but you can switch it up by using any nuts. Our almond brittle is the perfect balance of delicate crunch and sweet, nutty flavour – with hints of cinnamon and vanilla. It’s quick to make, and potentially quicker to eat!

Roasted spicy chickpea nuts

Crunchy, satisfying and packed with flavour, these roasted spicy chickpea nuts are the ultimate snack. Chickpeas, nuts and seeds are tossed in smoky spices (plus maple syrup, for a hint of sweetness), then roasted until golden and crisp. The perfect better-for-you snack on the go!

Did you know? Eating nuts at least three times a week has been linked to a 25% lower risk of depressive symptoms. Their unique nutrient mix – including omega-3s, magnesium and vitamin E – likely plays a role. A timely boost heading into the cooler, darker months.