February is a month that is often associated with hearts, symbolizing the celebration of love leading up to Valentine’s Day. However, these hearts should also serve as a reminder that February is officially American Heart Month. Did you know that cardiovascular disease is now the leading cause of death among U.S Hispanics? Experts attribute this unfortunate fact to poor nutrition lack of regular check-ups, and even certain environmental factors.
Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as pistachios and almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. Pistachios are a great choice for snack time, not only because they taste oh-so-good, but also they offer protein, fiber, potassium, and healthy fats, which are good for heart health. Additionally, nearly 90 percent of fats in pistachios are the healthy, unsaturated type. This Valentine’s Day, Wonderful Pistachios would like to suggest a few snacks that are both delicious, and healthy for the chocolate lovers out there who want to surprise their significant other.
For the Discerning Foodie
In-Shell Pistachios + Dark Chocolate + Orange Slices + Cheese Fondue + Pretzels + Wine
Ingredients:
In-Shell Pistachios
Dark Chocolate
Orange Slices
Cheese Fondue
Sourdough Pretzels
Spanish Sparkling Wine
Directions:
On a platter or a nice cutting board, add 1 cup of in-shell pistachios, 4 ounces chopped dark chocolate, 1 sliced orange, pot of cheese fondue and sourdough pretzels.
To make the fondue, toss ½ cup shredded fontina cheese, ½ cup shredded swiss cheese and ¼ cup Parmigiano Reggiano in 1 teaspoon cornstarch to coat and set aside. In a saucepan, heat ¾ cup Spanish sparkling wine to a simmer over low heat. Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon garlic powder and salt, to taste. Add cheese slowly, stirring constantly until fully melted. Transfer to fondue pot set over a low flame. Serve with sourdough pretzels.
For the Fruit Lover
Indulgent Dried Cranberries + Chocolate Dipped Clementine with In-Shell Wonderful Pistachios
Ingredients:
In-Shell Pistachios
Dried Cranberries
Chocolate-Dipped Clementines
Directions:
Dip clementine slices in melted chocolate and allow to harden. Fill small bowls with in-shell pistachios and dried cranberries. Place both on a serving platter alongside arranged chocolate dipped clementines.
For the Sweet Tooth
In-Shell Wonderful Pistachios + Cocunut Pineapples Covered in Chocolate
Ingredients:
In-Shell Pistachios
Chocolate-Dipped Pineapples
Shredded Coconut
Directions:
Dip pineapple slices in melted chocolate and allow to harden. Fill small bowls with in-shell pistachios and shredded coconut. Place both on a serving platter alongside arranged chocolate dipped pineapples.
Mia Guerra
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