Also known as: Just Pistachio, pleaseLikes: The desert, plenty of sunDislikes: Being type cast as a dessert ingredientHobbies: Drying in the sun, mixing with new ingredients and dishesFind him: Encrusting meats and fish, topping salads and grains, adding texture and flavor to sweet treats and standing alone as a tasty snackMORE FROM HEALTHY DINING FINDER: 4 Heart Healthy Foods You Should KnowYou may think Pistachio’s the new kid on the block with all of his recent publicity, but in truth, he’s one old time nut just getting a fresh look. Sure, it may take a little work on your part to bring him out of his shell, and he may look a little different from other nuts, with his signature green glow, but he’s proving that he deserves a place at the table.Like Raisin, Pistachio is a big fan of California these days, but his heart will always be in his Middle East home, where he’s been loved for thousands of years. He’s been hoarded by great rulers, carried on trading routes, prescribed for ailments and become ingrained in the traditional cuisines of the Middle East and Mediterranean. It’s no wonder Pistachio has been so loved for so long with his distinct nutty flavor and health benefits.MORE FROM HEALTHY DINING FINDER: Grilled Halibut with Orange Mint Basil Butter from Anthony’sAs more and more studies are done on Pistachio and his effects on health, one of the key benefits highlighted again and again is his role in promoting heart health. Pistachio is high in monounsaturated fat and antioxidants, which may help lower bad cholesterol and reduce inflammation. As a bonus, he provides a good way to include lutein in your diet, helpful for strong eye sight, as well as potassium, protein and fiber for an overall healthy diet. He doesn’t like to brag, but he’s also a good addition to the menu if you’re trying to manage your weight.Move over ice cream and baklava, Pistachio’s breaking out in a big way these days! You can find him in these menu items at participating Healthy Dining restaurants:
- Organic Arugula Salad at Seasons 52 (220 calories, 11 g fat). Located nationwide.
- Hazelnut-Pomegranate Chicken with Spinach Salad at Log Haven (520 calories, 23 g fat). Located in Salt Lake City, UT.
- New Zealand Lamb Rack at Bernardo’O Restaurant (510 calories, 24 g fat). Located in San Diego, CA.
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