Pistachios are becoming an increasingly popular snack. Not only are they delicious, they provide many vitamins and minerals. One cup dry-roasted pistachios provides approximately 35% DV Potassium, 48% Dietary Fiber, 52% Protein, 13% Calcium, 27% Iron, 70% Vitamin B6 and 33% Magnesium (source).

A member of the cashew family, the pistachio, or Pistacia vera, is grown in various countries around the world and is said to have been first cultivated in Western Asia. Consumed as far back as 6750 BC, the pistachio is a desert plant that can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, though it does not respond well in humid climates or those which provide too much water. Each tree produces approximately 50,000 nuts every two years (source).

Try these green-colored beauties atop some Cinnamon Banana Muffins. If you prefer, pistachios can be replaced with the nut of your choice.

Cinnamon-Banana Muffins…