For those who keep track of such things, July 12th is National Pecan Pie day — but pecans are not just good in a pie. Today the StoneGate Apartment Homes Blog shares some fun facts about pecans as well as several recipes featuring pecans in this post. Pecans can be used in a variety of dishes, from adding a sweetish crunch to your morning yogurt to garnishing a spinach salad, to topping a casserole, and to serving as the main ingredient for desserts. They make a delightful toasted, salty-sweet treat that is purchased from vendors at street markets, fairs, and festivals, or they can be sprinkled atop a creamy dish of French-vanilla ice cream.
Pecans definitely pack a nutritional wallop as evidenced by these facts:
— Pecans contain more antioxidants than any other nut variety, according to ORAC values.
— Pecans can help reduce the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol levels.
— Pecans contain more than 19 vitamins and minerals.
— Pecans are a natural, high-quality source of protein and are naturally sodium free
Add a handful of pecans to your morning cereal, take some to work to snack on during the day, add some to a lunchtime salad, or stir them into a parfait. There are so many great ways to enjoy them! Here are a few recipes you may want to try out on the 12th (or any day this month).
Here’s a two-for-one from Cutestuff Cooks with recipes for both Sweet Toasted Pecans and Texas Pecan Squares.
This Spinach/Pecan/Strawberry Salad looks delightful over at the I Wash . . . You Dry Blog, which features simple recipes with easy cleanup.
And a post about pecans wouldn’t be complete without a recipe for Pecan Pie. This recipe is from The Pioneer Woman Cooks, and it has wonderful step-by-step directions along with pictures and a delightful commentary.
We hope you have the opportunity to bake and/or eat pecan pie on the 12th. We suggest making an extra pie and giving it to a friend. Or, bring a pecan pie to work to share with co-workers. If you don't have time to bake for Pecan Pie Day, head over to your favorite Williamsville, NY bakery to pick up a pecan pie. Do you have favorite pecan recipes? Share with us in the comments!