When I was in Italy last summer I was standing right next to a pinus pinea. It looked like a regular, old pine tree. I was surprised that such a common looking tree could yield that coveted jewel-like nut. And they come right out of regular looking pine cones. The little oval brown seeds (these are the shells, the pine nuts are inside) are nestled secretly between the cone layers. Then, as the pine cones age and dry, the seeds drop out.
The ground under my pinus pinea was sprinkled with the little brown capsules, and an occasional whole pine cone filled with the loot. Makes you want to check out all pine cones from now on. Who knows what they're hiding.
I consulted my Italian friends and discovered some great dishes that pine nuts can enhance or even star in! (Being 5'1" tall, I love it when little things get a lot of attention.)
Try out these recipes. They add a lovely exotic touch to holiday fare (or a great treat for any old time).
