Having only eaten walnuts sporadically I was intrigued to find although the nut has culinary use, the shells are used for making dynamite, oil paint, plastics and helping to drill oil wells. I am sure the dynamite discovery must have come from some lateral thinker watching the walnuts 'explode' from their husks before falling to the ground.
Fresh walnut ripening on tree
The walnuts (roasted) go well with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Champagne...
Whole Parmiganio Reggiano cheese with cheese straws and champagne.
...but if you desire something tasty on a smaller budget try this salad from Ruth Pretty
Ruth Pretty's pear, celery and walnut salad with honey vinaigrette.
