Pistachio Nut

Scientific Binomial Name: Pistacia vera

Selection Information

Usage: Eaten unsalted, salted or roasted. Also used in ice cream and confections.

Selection: Pistachios can be purchased with or without shells and can be either raw or roasted. Good-quality pistachios in shells should have partially open shells that are free of defects. Pistachio shells split open to accommodate the expanding nut kernel. A firmly closed shell indicates that the nut is immature and flavorless. Also, choose the most colorful nuts; the most flavorful, highest-quality nuts are bright green in color.

Storage: Pistachios keep well when stored properly. To keep them at their freshest, store pistachios in a refrigerated airtight container or keep them in the freezer for long-term storage.

Avoid: Avoid salted pistachios and those whose naturally beige shells have been dyed red or whitened.

Seasonal Information

Available from late July through the end of October.

Pistachio Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 cup (123g)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 685	Calories from Fat 458
	% Daily Value*
Total Fat 55g	84%
Saturated Fat 7g	33%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 34g	11%
Dietary Fiber 13g	51%
Sugars 9g
Protein 25g
Vitamin A 14%	Vitamin C 10%
Calcium 13%	Iron 28%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Source: PMA's Labeling Facts

Pistachios very low in Cholesterol and Sodium. They're also a good source of Thiamin, Vitamin B6, Copper and Manganese.

Pistachio Nut Tips & Trivia

Pistachios are one of the oldest flowering nut trees; humans have eaten pistachio nuts for at least 9,000 years.
With their high nutritional value and long storage life, pistachios were an indispensable travel item amongst early explorers and travelers, including travelers across the ancient Silk Road that connected China with the West.