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Toasted Pecans
Nuts
Nutri-ScoreA

Toasted Pecans

Carya illinoinensis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Toasted pecans are a delicious nut that is rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. They are often used in desserts, salads, and as a snack.

Also known as:
Pecan nuts (USA)Carya illinoinensis (Scientific)
Scientific NameCarya illinoinensis
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories691 kcal
Water
3%
Fiber9.6g
Total95.1g
Protein
9.2g(10%)
Fats
72g(76%)
Carbohydrates
13.9g(15%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin E0.7 mg (5%)
Vitamin K3.5 µg (3%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.7 mg (58%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)1.2 mg (8%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.4 mg (8%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Folate22 µg (6%)
Choline24 mg (4%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 2 µgVitamin C: 1.1 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin B12: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium70 mg (5%)
Iron2.5 mg (14%)
Magnesium121 mg (30%)
Phosphorus277 mg (39%)
Potassium410 mg (9%)
Zinc4.5 mg (41%)
Copper1.2 mg (135%)
Manganese1.2 mg (60%)
Selenium2.5 µg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Toasted pecans are high in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
They are an excellent source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Toasted pecans can be enjoyed raw or roasted. Roasting enhances their flavor and crunchiness. They can be added to salads, desserts, or eaten as a snack.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose pecans that are plump, firm, and free from blemishes. Fresh pecans should have a pleasant, nutty aroma.

How to Store

Store toasted pecans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For longer shelf life, refrigerate or freeze them.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatoryHeart health support
Main Applications
Heart health improvement
Weight management
Bioactive Compounds
Ellagic acid

May help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Phenolic compounds

Contribute to antioxidant activity.

How to Consume
Raw, Roasted, Ground into flour, Added to dishes
Did you know?

"Pecans are the only native nut tree in the United States and were a staple food for Native Americans."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Pecans are fattening.
RealityReality: While pecans are high in calories, they contain healthy fats that can aid in weight management.
MythMyth: All nuts are the same nutritionally.
RealityReality: Different nuts have varying nutrient profiles; pecans are particularly high in antioxidants.
MythMyth: Toasted pecans lose their nutritional value.
RealityReality: Toasting can enhance flavor without significantly affecting their nutritional content.

Healthy Recipes

Toasted Pecan and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad featuring toasted pecans, quinoa, and seasonal vegetables, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup diced cucumber
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and top with toasted pecans before serving.

Toasted Pecan and Banana Overnight Oats

Start your day with these nutritious overnight oats topped with toasted pecans and banana for a delightful crunch.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 banana, sliced
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
  1. 1. In a jar, combine rolled oats, almond milk, honey, and cinnamon; stir well.
  2. 2. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  3. 3. In the morning, top with sliced banana and toasted pecans before enjoying.

Spicy Toasted Pecan Hummus

A unique twist on traditional hummus, this spicy version incorporates toasted pecans for added flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, toasted pecans, tahini, olive oil, garlic, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water if necessary to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole-grain pita chips.

Toasted Pecan-Crusted Salmon

This baked salmon dish features a crunchy toasted pecan crust, providing a delicious and healthy dinner option.

Ingredients
  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the mixture over the salmon fillets, then press the toasted pecans onto the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

Toasted Pecan and Apple Chia Pudding

A creamy chia pudding infused with apple and toasted pecans, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 apple, diced
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract; stir well.
  2. 2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until it thickens.
  3. 3. Top with diced apple and toasted pecans before serving.

Toasted Pecan Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are packed with toasted pecans and oats, making them a perfect on-the-go snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. 1. In a mixing bowl, combine oats, toasted pecans, almond butter, honey, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract.
  2. 2. Mix until well combined, then form into small balls.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before enjoying.

Toasted Pecan and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a savory mixture of spinach and toasted pecans, offering a delightful flavor combination.

Ingredients
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted, then mix in toasted pecans and feta cheese.
  3. 3. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast, stuff with the spinach mixture, season with salt and pepper, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Toasted Pecan and Sweet Potato Mash

A healthy side dish featuring creamy sweet potatoes blended with toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
  2. 2. Drain and mash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. 3. Stir in toasted pecans before serving.

Toasted Pecan and Berry Smoothie Bowl

A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with fresh berries and toasted pecans, perfect for a nutritious breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1 banana
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Fresh berries for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine frozen berries, banana, almond milk, and honey; blend until smooth.
  2. 2. Pour into a bowl and top with toasted pecans and fresh berries.

Toasted Pecan and Zucchini Fritters

Crispy fritters made with grated zucchini and toasted pecans, offering a healthy and delicious appetizer or snack.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, toasted pecans, flour, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form into patties and cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. Serve warm with a yogurt dip or sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are toasted pecans healthy?

Yes, toasted pecans are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.

How many calories are in toasted pecans?

There are approximately 691 calories in 100 grams of toasted pecans.

Can I eat toasted pecans if I have a nut allergy?

No, individuals with nut allergies should avoid pecans.

What are the health benefits of toasted pecans?

They can help lower cholesterol levels, provide antioxidants, and support heart health.

How should I store toasted pecans?

Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Can toasted pecans be used in baking?

Yes, they can be added to cookies, cakes, and other baked goods for flavor and texture.

Are toasted pecans gluten-free?

Yes, pecans are naturally gluten-free.

How can I incorporate toasted pecans into my diet?

Add them to salads, oatmeal, yogurt, or enjoy them as a snack.