Today is National Pistachio Day, and it's about to get nutty!
Pistachios are grown from a small tree originating in the Middle East. However, the U. S. is currently second in pistachio production, followed by Turkey and Syria. According to pistachiohealth.com, almost 90 percent of the fat found in pistachios is the healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats, they have no trans-fat, and one serving contains 3 grams of fiber!
There are many delicious and fun ways in Gainesville to participate in National Pistachio Day. Listed below are establishments that recognize and celebrate the pistachio nut every day:
Fleur de pistache (pistachio croissant), Uppercrust artisan bakery
No one in Gainesville does French pastry like Uppercrust. If you've never been before, get over immediately! When you walk through the doors, you'll be assaulted by the incredibly intoxicating scent of fresh breads, buttery pastries and rich chocolate. Don't get distracted — you are there for the salty sweetness of a fleur de pistache! Trust me on this one.
Pistachio gelato, The Gelato Company
Although the flavors at The Gelato Company rotate daily, they have taken the time to make pistachio gelato available today for your eating pleasure. Gelato falls between ice cream and frozen yogurt on the health scale. It has less fat and sugar than ice cream but due to the slow churn freezing process, it becomes denser than ice cream and tastes extremely rich. To mix it up, try pairing pistachio with chocolate or cheesecake gelato!
Sesame and pistachio frosted cupcake, Sarkara Sweets
Sarkara is known for having thousands of options to design your own custom cupcake. Among these options is an exotic sesame and pistachio frosting. Owner Stephanie Browning suggests pairing it with red velvet cake and white chocolate chips.
Pistachio baklava, Gyro Plus
If you can save room after one of their amazing Greek-style gyros or pita sandwiches, take a look at Gyro Plus' dessert display. The pistachio baklava, in particular, is buttery sheets of filo dough generously brushed with homemade sugar syrup and filled neatly with pistachio nuts.
Pistachio-crusted goat cheese, Zuzu Restaurant
Zuzu is American flavor with a contemporary modern design. The menu hosts an array of small plates, salads, pastas, grilled items and signature entrees. Check out the pistachio-crusted goat cheese from the small plates section. It is served with braised endive, tomato, white truffle oil and a balsamic raspberry reduction.
Pistachio-crusted lamb, 101 Downtown
If you're looking to give the pistachio nut a true salute, go for the pricy-but-worth-it New Zealand rack of lamb at 101 Downtown. The lamb is rubbed with pistachio then grilled and topped with a shitake mushroom demi-glaze. This dish is available in a half or full rack ... if you're willing to share!
Happy Pistachio Day! (Note: It's debated whether January or February 26 is the holiday. Why not celebrate both?)
Posts in Chomp and Chew appear on Thursdays. For more from Becca, check out her personal blog Becca Bakes.
