Pine nuts are small, teardrop-shaped kernels with a creamy ivory hue and a delicate, buttery-sweet flavor. Harvested from pine cones, they have a soft crunch and a subtle resinous aroma when raw, turning toastier when roasted. Rich in heart-healthy fats, iron, and magnesium, they’re famous for their role in pesto and Mediterranean dishes. Their high price stems from slow, labor-intensive harvesting—so savor them sparingly!