This Savory Herb and Nut Stuffing is a game-changer for your holiday table. It combines the hearty texture of sourdough bread with the earthy crunch of walnuts and pecans, all brought together by a medley of fresh herbs. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their stuffing game.
Sourdough bread forms the base, providing a robust texture and tangy flavor. Walnuts and pecans add a crunchy, nutty dimension. Olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables, offering a rich foundation. The combination of onions, celery, and garlic creates a classic flavor trio. Fresh herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme infuse the stuffing with aromatic depth. Vegetable broth moistens the mix, tying all elements together.
This stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or as a side to a hearty main dish like roasted chicken or turkey. Try serving it alongside a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bread toasts evenly. Spread the cubed sourdough bread on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes. You want the bread slightly golden and crisp — this helps it absorb all the wonderful flavors without turning mushy.
While the bread is toasting, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften and their aroma fills your kitchen.
Toss in the walnuts and pecans. Stir them around for another 3 minutes until they are lightly toasted; this step enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
Now, stir in the fresh parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the herbs release their fragrant oils into the mixture.
In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with your skillet mixture. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, stirring gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid evenly. Aim for a moist but not soggy consistency.
Transfer the stuffing into a greased baking dish. Bake it for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until the top is crispy and golden. Serve warm and enjoy!