Nuts can be an incredibly healthy and indulgent snack. But there are several things to keep in mind before buying them, including proper storage and purchasing quality nuts.
A good rule of thumb is to choose those that look crisp, plump, and uniform in color. Avoid those that are shriveled or have cracks and holes in the shells.
Almonds
Almonds are an excellent choice for those seeking a high-protein, high-fat, low-carb snack. They are also a good source of vitamin E, which has been linked to numerous health benefits. They are also a source of magnesium, which has been shown to help promote healthy blood sugar levels.
Almonds are soft and sweet when roasted with a nutty, buttery flavor. They are great for snacking or adding to savory dishes like salads, pasta, or desserts.
They are a good source of phosphorus, iron, calcium, and potassium. They are also high in fiber, and they have been linked to improved heart health.
Many kinds of almonds exist, including raw, roasted, and blanched. Roasted almonds are nuttier and have a better flavor than raw almonds.
Blanched almonds are usually less bitter and have a smoother texture. They are often used in confectionery baking.
In a wide variety of cuisines, almonds are an important ingredient. In Europe, they are widely used to make marzipan, a sweet paste sometimes used to decorate cakes and cookies.
Observational studies have found that eating nuts at least four times per week is associated with lower total and LDL cholesterol levels. Nuts are also a good protein, fiber, and healthy fats source.
A gift basket of mixed gourmet nuts is a great way to show someone how much you care. Hickory Farms has a variety of savory mixed nuts gift baskets that are perfect for all tastes.
Cashews
Cashews are great gourmet nuts to include in your diet as they are nutrient-dense, versatile, and highly delicious. They are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, plant protein, and fiber. They can be enjoyed as a snack or added to a variety of recipes and dishes, including smoothies, salads, and desserts.
They are a great source of dietary fiber, magnesium, and copper. These nutrients are important for a number of body processes, such as heart health and digestion.
These nutrients are also associated with reduced risk of obesity, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic diseases. They can help promote weight loss by increasing the feeling of fullness and reducing cravings for high-calorie foods.
Another benefit of these gourmet nuts is their ability to boost metabolism and strengthen the immune system. They are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to many health benefits, including lower cholesterol levels and increased immune function.
Finally, they are a good source of vitamin E and magnesium. These vitamins are necessary for a wide range of enzymatic reactions and can also help regulate muscle contractions and relax nerve impulses.
As with all tree nuts, cashews can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive people. Therefore, it is important to soak them overnight before eating them or consuming them in moderation.
Pistachios
Pistachios are great gourmet nuts because they’re versatile ingredients that can be eaten as a snack, added to salads, or even made into a dessert crust. Plus, they’re a good source of protein and healthy fats that can help you manage your weight.
They are also a good source of antioxidants, including the nutrients lutein and zeaxanthin. These vitamins and minerals are essential for eye health, and they can help prevent diseases that can lead to vision loss, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
In addition, they are high in satiating properties that may help you manage your appetite and keep you full for longer. This happens because fat slows down the absorption of food, and protein and fiber promote feelings of fullness.
Lastly, they are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats have been shown to lower blood pressure and improve the elasticity of blood vessels, making them an important part of a heart-healthy diet.
You can find pistachios in the shell, raw or roasted and salted. Raw pistachios don’t have much sodium, but a cup of roasted pistachios contains 526 milligrams of salt.
If you have a nut allergy or intolerance, talk to a doctor before adding pistachios to your diet. They can help you identify whether you’re sensitive to a particular nut and recommend a safer option for you.
Walnuts
Walnuts are a great gourmet nut to include in your diet because they are rich in polyunsaturated fat. This kind of fat helps your body get the nutrients it needs and improves heart health.
They are also a great source of vitamin B and magnesium, which aid in muscle and bone health. Plus, they are low in sodium and cholesterol-free.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, walnuts are said to tonify the kidneys, nourish the blood, warm the lungs, and moisten the intestines. In addition, they help balance blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and are a natural appetite controller.
These nuts are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce oxidative stress and improve brain function. In addition, they have a number of phytochemicals that are beneficial to the human body and may prevent cancer and dementia.
Another benefit of eating a healthy diet with walnuts is that they are a good source of dietary fiber and protein, both of which are important for overall health. They also contain calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, and potassium, which are essential for bone and joint health.
Walnuts are easy to eat as-is or incorporated into various dishes. Try adding them to your next sandwich, salad, or smoothie. They are also tasty roasted and added to stir-fries, as a garnish for grilled foods, or as an oil in vinaigrettes and sauces for savory meals.
Pecans
Pecans are versatile gourmet nuts that can be eaten raw, roasted, or flavored. They’re also a great addition to any meal or snack because they’re high in protein and fiber, which help curb hunger.
They can be paired with fresh fruit, chocolate-dipped fruits, and cheeses for a healthy and delicious snack. They’re also a great addition as an ingredient in savory or sweet dishes or added to ice cream for a unique flavor.
Unshelled pecans can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months. Shelled pecans should be kept in the refrigerator or freezer to preserve their freshness and flavor.
These tasty nuts are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium. They also contain fiber, which helps you feel full longer and reduces your weight gain risk.
Pecans are also low in saturated fat and contain monounsaturated fats, which have cardiovascular benefits like reducing blood pressure and improving heart health. They are also a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which improve brain, eye, and heart health.
A one-ounce serving of pecans contains 196 calories, with 171 calories from fat, 15 from carbohydrates, and 10 from protein. Nuts are a great choice for people with diabetes because they are low in sugar and have a low glycemic index. They’re also high in protein, fiber and antioxidants.
Macadamias
Macadamias are delicious, buttery nuts with a creamy, coconut-like taste. They are a great gourmet nut that goes well with salads, sandwiches, and desserts.
They are native to Australia, but now they are grown all around the world, including in Hawaii and Costa Rica. They can be found in most grocery stores and are a popular snack or dessert item.
These nuts are high in antioxidants, promoting heart health and lowering cancer risk. They also help manage weight. They are also rich in healthy fats and contain vitamins A, B, iron, manganese, and folate.
One of the most important nutrients in these nuts is fiber, especially the prebiotic variety that supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This helps control blood sugar levels and improves digestion.
Another one of the most important benefits of macadamia nuts is their anti-inflammatory properties. They contain squalene and palmitoleic acid, both of which are thought to prevent tissue dehydration, promote healing, and fight against oxidative stress in the skin.
In addition, they are high in tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E. Studies have shown that tocotrienols can help prevent oxidative damage in the brain.
They also boost HDL, the good cholesterol, and lower LDL, the bad cholesterol. They are a great source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which are believed to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. They are also a good source of protein and thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folate.
