How are pine nuts used as food?

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Stone pine trees with rounded canopies stand amid low shrubs and flowering yellow bushes in Donana National Park, Huelva province, Andalusia, Spain. — pine A stand of stone pines (*Pinus pinea*) in Doñana National Park near Seville, Spain.

Pine nuts, which are the edible seeds of certain species within the pine genus (Pinus), are valued for their sweet, buttery flavor and soft, milky texture.1

They are used in a variety of culinary applications:

Sauces and Condiments: They are a primary ingredient in pesto.1
Mediterranean Cuisine: They are frequently paired with spinach and raisins.1
Salads and Vegetables: They are commonly added to vegetable dishes and salads for texture and flavor.1
Baking: When combined with almond paste, they are used in traditional Italian cookies.1

While they can be eaten raw, light toasting without added fat is often recommended to enhance their aroma, crispness, and nutty flavor. Because they are rich in protein and monounsaturated fats, they should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent them from going rancid.1