If you're looking for a healthy snack to serve your family and guest, or just for yourself, consider pecans and walnuts. These healthy gourmet nuts are surprisingly good for you. Let's examine why...
Gourmet nuts in general are a very healthy snack. If over processed foods turn you off, gourmet nuts are a great alternative. When you buy from specialty online retailers, you'll get the freshest of the fresh delivered to your door, as opposed to grocers and superstores where there is no telling how long the product has been on the shelf.
Almost any kind of nut is a healthy snack, particularly if they are served roasted and lightly salted. Nuts are a natural product, and about the only processing the undergo is the shelling, roasting, and salting.
The Health Benefits Of Pecans
Pecans are one of the most popular varieties of gourmet nuts. They are used frequently in baking and are a staple of packaged mixed nuts. Interestingly, pecans are the only nut that grows naturally in North America. Pecan trees are common throughout the southern United States and Mexico, with Arizona being a prime producer.
In addition to their great taste and versatility, pecans are rich in vitamins A and E. They are also chock full of beneficial minerals. Potassium, iron, magnesium, folic acid, and calcium top the list. Like just about every gourmet nut, pecans are also rich in fiber and protein. Fitness experts recommend a snack of pecans after a workout since they are protein rich and a natural energy source.
Shelled pecans can be stored in the refrigerator for a year without spoiling, and in your freezer for two years. If they are frozen, simply thaw them out on paper towels until they become room temperature.
Why Walnuts Are So Healthy
Another gourmet nut that is extremely good for you is the walnut. Walnuts are just as versatile as pecans and are used in much the same manner. They are commonly used in breads, cookies, or as a topping for salads and other dishes.
Walnuts are particularly known for their abundance of omega 3 acids. Omega 3 acids are what you find in olive oil and are very beneficial to your heart and digestive system. They also have inflammatory properties and are a good snack for those with skin diseases and arthritic conditions.
Shelled or unshelled walnuts should be kept in a cool, dry place and they will maintain their freshness for several months.
Summary
Both pecans and walnuts are an ideal snack, not only for their great taste, but for their health properties. Both are rich in vitamins and nutrients and are a low fat, high protein snack that's perfect for the entire family.
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