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SMART SHOPPING: Pine nuts

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Also called piñons (Spanish) or pignoli (Italian), these diminutive nutlike seeds are harvested from pinecones. There are two main types of pine nuts: the delicately flavored, torpedo-shaped Mediterranean pine nuts and the more assertive corn kernel-shaped Chinese pine nuts (shown). The less-expensive Chinese variety is more widely available, but both can be used interchangeably. Pine nuts have a mild taste and a slightly waxy texture. Pine nuts need to be stored with care to prevent rancidity. They are best transferred to an airtight container as soon as their original packaging is opened. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to three months or in the freezer for up to nine months.