A member of the cashew family, the pistachio nut comes from the pistacia plant, one of among nine species of aromatic shrubs and trees. The variety that produces edible pistachio nuts is the Pistacia vera. Pistachios are cultivated in central Asia, the Mediterranean countries, the Middle East, and the United States, especially in California.
Pistachios are a popular snack food and are used to make a variety of sweet and savory foods, from ice cream to pâtés. Pistachio nuts are especially popular in Indian and Mediterranean cuisines. To remove the brownish skin, blanch pistachios in boiling water for about two minutes. Drain and cool slightly, then rub off the skins while still warm.
Pistachios (raw), 30 nuts (18g)
Calories: 99
Protein: 3.68g
Carbohydrate: 5.25g
Total Fat: 7.7g
Fiber: 1.8g
*Good source of: Vitamin B6 (0.31mg ), and Thiamine (0.157mg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.
Alpha-linolenic acid is a fatty acid found in many foods. Most, but not all, studies have found that high dietary or blood levels of alpha-linolenic acid correlate with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Concentrations of alpha-linolenic acid are high in almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, flaxseed, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, peanuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts.
Health benefits and
concerns for nuts and seeds
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other nuts and
seeds. Read about health benefits and concerns for
nuts and seeds for a full description.