Pistachio Nuts

The Queen of Sheba believed pistachios were an aphrodisiac, and ancient Middle Easterners thought that sharing pistachios enhanced feelings of love. Members of the cashew family, pistachios are often dyed red, but their kernels are green.

Health benefits: Pistachios are high in phytosterols, which are known for lowering blood cholesterol. They contain mostly heart-friendly monounsaturated fats. The potassium content of one ounce of pistachios (310 milligrams) is equal to that of one orange. Pistachios are also a great source of fibre, vitamin B6, magnesium and calcium.

Nutritional value:  One ounce (49 nuts): 160 calories ; 13 grams of fat.

How to add them to your diet: Garnish soups, salads and cereals with pistachios. Combine vegetables, rice or pasta with pistachio sauce. (To make the sauce: Combine three cups/750 millilitres of soy milk with salt and pepper to taste; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Slowly add ground pistachios; stir until thick).