Few foods say “Fall” quite like roasted chestnuts. Their nutty sweetness and soft, comforting texture make them perfect for snacking on a chilly evening or adding to festive dishes. While cracking into chestnuts takes a little effort, the aroma that fills your kitchen and the warm, tender bites are well worth it. With just a...Read More

Chestnuts have a fascinating history and are making a small but sweet comeback. Find fresh chestnuts now at Minazzoli Farms at the farmers markets—but only for a limited time! A Little History In the 1800s, Chinese chestnut trees were brought to the U.S. Unfortunately, they carried a fungus—chestnut blight—that devastated the native American chestnut population....Read More

Most people immediately think of chickpeas when they hear the word hummus, but chestnuts make an equally delicious—and unique—alternative. Naturally sweet and creamy when roasted, chestnuts blend beautifully with tahini, garlic, and lemon for a smooth, nutty dip that feels both familiar and unexpected. This chestnut hummus is perfect for autumn and winter gatherings when...Read More

This rustic yet elegant braise layers seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, and chestnuts into a dish with deep, hearty flavors. Inspired by porcini mushrooms foraged near Lake Tahoe one Thanksgiving, it celebrates autumn’s abundance while remaining flexible—substitute mushrooms, omit asparagus, or swap roots as needed. Just don’t omit too many elements, or the dish will lose its...Read More

Wine-braised cabbage with apples and chestnuts is a rustic yet elegant dish that celebrates the flavors of autumn. Slowly cooked with white wine, onions, carrots, and herbs, the cabbage becomes tender and infused with subtle sweetness. Apples add brightness, while chestnuts lend an earthy richness, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Serve it as a...Read More

This recipe makes the most of delicata squash, with its sweet, tender flesh and edible skin. The stuffing—hearty farro, nutty roasted chestnuts, earthy kale, and tart dried cranberries—creates a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. It’s a vegetarian dish that feels special, making it ideal for fall gatherings or as a colorful centerpiece on a...Read More

Nutty quinoa and roasted chestnuts form the hearty base of this jewel-toned salad, while bright citrus, peppery arugula, and bursts of pomegranate seeds add layers of freshness and flavor. The result is a dish that’s light yet satisfying, colorful enough to brighten any winter table, and versatile enough to serve as a wholesome side or...Read More

This Chestnut Risotto with Wild Mushrooms brings together two quintessential flavors of autumn — earthy mushrooms and sweet, nutty chestnuts — in a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. The chestnut purée enhances the risotto’s natural creaminess, while roasted chestnut pieces add a satisfying bite and depth of flavor. Paired with sautéed wild mushrooms,...Read More

This recipe for Chestnut and Sage Pappardelle captures the very essence of fall: nutty roasted chestnuts, earthy sage, and ribbons of pasta all bound together with golden browned butter. The combination is rustic yet refined, offering a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Quick enough to prepare on a weeknight but impressive enough for...Read More