Pine nuts, roasted
Description
Pine nuts, roasted, have small, elongated seeds with a creamy-golden hue and a delicate, buttery note with a slightly resinous taste; roasting enhances the aroma and gives a pleasant crunch. They are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, protein, fiber, and minerals such as magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper, as well as vitamin E; they contain a specific fatty acid (pinolenic) that may promote satiety. Due to their high caloric content, it is advisable to consume them in moderation as part of a heart-healthy and metabolism-supporting diet. In the kitchen, pine nuts pair perfectly with pesto, salads, pasta, bread, vegetable dishes, and desserts, adding crunch and depth of flavor; it is worth briefly toasting them before use for a more intense aroma. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, preferably in the refrigerator or freezer, to prevent rancidity, and use within a few months of opening.