How To Toast Pine Nuts

Although pine nuts are most commonly used to make Italian pesto, they have much more to offer. This tiny, tender nut can add a pop of flavor to cookies, texture to salads, and depth to many other dishes. I like to toast my pine nuts before using them, since it bumps up the buttery taste, golden color, and crunch. 

Pine Nut Fast Facts

You might be surprised to learn that pine nuts aren’t a nut at all, but an edible seed from pine trees. Here are a few other tidbits that are worth knowing about this mighty little nut:

• They are notably oily, so it’s important to store them in the refrigerator or freezer to extend their shelf life.
• The natural fats in the nuts mean you don’t have to oil the pan when you toast them.
• Pine nuts are delicate and can easily burn when toasted, so keep a close eye when you’re at the stove. 
• Pine nuts are sweet, similar to cashews. If they taste bitter, it’s likely they’re rancid and should be tossed. 

Two Easy Ways to Toast Pine Nuts

You can choose your own adventure: Either toast them in a 350°F oven or in a skillet on the stove. The recipe below is for 1/2 cup of pine nuts, but you can scale the amount up or down depending on your need. 

How To Use Toasted Pine Nuts

Once you have your nuts toasted, stash them in a jar and pull them out to scatter over hummus or avocado toast, atop yogurt or oatmeal, or in any of the following tasty recipes: 

• Summer Squash Salad
• Sauteed Greens with Pine Nuts and Raisins
• Asparagus Pesto with Pasta
• Mushroom Caviar
• Spinach and Orzo Salad