By: Judy Davie - The Food Coach
 If you've ever only eaten pistachios in their dried form, you might be surprised to learn that fresh pistachios are a completely different experience. These delicate, creamy nuts are in season right now, but their availability is fleeting-so if you spot them, seize the moment!
Fresh vs. Dried Pistachios - What's the Difference?
Most of us are familiar with the dried, roasted pistachios found in snack packs and nut mixes, but fresh pistachios are something special. They have a soft, almost buttery texture, and their flavour is milder and slightly sweet compared to their dried counterparts. The outer husk is pinkish-red, and when peeled away, reveals a pale green nut with a tender bite.
Nutritionally, fresh pistachios retain a slightly higher water content, making them lower in calories per gram than dried ones. They also contain more vitamin C, which diminishes during the drying process. However, dried pistachios have a longer shelf life and a more concentrated nutrient profile, particularly in fibre, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
What to Do with Fresh Pistachios
Since fresh pistachios are softer and more delicate than dried ones, they lend themselves well to both sweet and savoury dishes. Here are a few ideas to make the most of them:
Snack on Them as They Are - Enjoy fresh pistachios straight from the shell for a creamy, mild-flavoured treat.
Add to Salads - Scatter them over a fresh green salad with goat's cheese, figs, and a drizzle of honey for a beautiful contrast of textures.
Blend into Pesto - Swap out pine nuts for fresh pistachios in a pesto with basil, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan.
Fold into Desserts - Fresh pistachios pair beautifully with ricotta, yoghurt, and honey-try them in a simple parfait or over vanilla ice cream.
Toss into Pasta - Stir through pasta dishes with lemon zest, olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bright, nutty finish.
Make Fresh Pistachio Butter - Blend them with a little salt and a touch of honey for a creamy, spreadable delight.
Storing Fresh Pistachios
Because of their high moisture content, fresh pistachios don't last as long as dried ones. Keep them in the fridge and eat them within a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
If you come across fresh pistachios, don't hesitate-grab a bag and enjoy them while you can. Their short season makes them a true seasonal treat, offering a flavour and texture you won't get from their dried counterparts.
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