Pine Nut

Pine nuts 🌰 are the edible seeds of certain pine tree species, especially the stone pine (Pinus pinea) native to the Mediterranean region. They are considered a delicacy with a mild, buttery, and slightly resinous flavor. Pine nuts are used in a variety of international cuisines — from Mediterranean classics to Asian dishes.

They are often lightly toasted to bring out their full aroma and are a key ingredient in traditional pesto Genovese. Pine nuts also enhance salads, pasta, vegetable dishes, and even desserts. Thanks to their high fat content, they have a creamy texture and rich mouthfeel.

Nutritionally, pine nuts are small powerhouses: rich in healthy fats, plant-based protein, and essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. They also contain vitamin E and are considered beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.

Harvesting pine nuts is labor-intensive. The seeds are extracted from tough pine cones and must be shelled, which contributes to their relatively high price.

Pine nuts have been eaten since antiquity and were originally cultivated in the Mediterranean region. Today, they are also grown in parts of Asia and North America and remain a prized ingredient in gourmet cooking.

🧪 Nutritional Values (per 100g)

🖼️ Example Images

Image sources: Wikimedia Commons, licensed under Creative Commons