How Many Calories in Pistachios?

Pistachios are a type of tree nut that is native to western Asia and the Middle East. These small, green nuts have a distinctive flavor and are a popular snack food around the world. Pistachios are also a good source of nutrients, including protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

One of the questions that people often have about pistachios is how many calories they contain. The number of calories in pistachios can vary depending on the serving size and whether they are shelled or unshelled. In this article, we will explore the calorie content of pistachios and the factors that can affect their calorie count.

Calories in Pistachios

Pistachios are a relatively high-calorie food. A one-ounce serving (about 49 kernels) of unshelled pistachios contains about 160 calories. This serving size is roughly equivalent to 1/4 cup or 1.5 ounces of shelled pistachios.

A one-ounce serving of shelled pistachios contains about 160-170 calories. This is because shelled pistachios are generally sold in slightly larger serving sizes than unshelled pistachios.

It’s important to note that the calorie content of pistachios can vary depending on the serving size. For example, a half-ounce serving of shelled pistachios (about 24 kernels) contains about 80-85 calories. A two-ounce serving of shelled pistachios (about 98 kernels) contains about 320-340 calories.

Factors That Affect the Calorie Content of Pistachios

There are several factors that can affect the calorie content of pistachios. Here are a few of the most significant ones:

Shell: As mentioned above, unshelled pistachios tend to contain fewer calories per serving than shelled pistachios. This is because the shells add weight to the serving size, which can dilute the calorie content.

Roasting: Pistachios are often roasted to enhance their flavor and texture. However, roasting can also increase the calorie content of the nuts. Roasted pistachios may contain up to 10% more calories than raw pistachios.

Seasoning: Pistachios are sometimes flavored or seasoned with salt, sugar, or other ingredients. These seasonings can add calories to the nuts. For example, a serving of salted pistachios may contain up to 20% more calories than unsalted pistachios.

Serving size: As mentioned earlier, the calorie content of pistachios can vary significantly depending on the serving size. It’s important to pay attention to serving sizes when eating pistachios or any other food, as it can impact the overall calorie intake.

One serving of pistachios is 1 ounce, or 49 kernels. This serving size contains around 160 calories. However, it’s easy to eat more than one serving of pistachios in a single sitting, especially if you’re snacking straight from the bag. It’s important to pay attention to serving sizes and be mindful of how much you’re consuming.

One of the unique aspects of pistachios is that they have a relatively high protein content for a nut. One serving of pistachios contains 6 grams of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. This can be especially beneficial if you’re trying to lose weight and are looking for snack options that will help you feel full and satisfied without consuming too many calories.

Pistachios are also a good source of fiber, with 3 grams per serving. Fiber is an important nutrient that helps to keep your digestive system functioning properly and can also help to lower cholesterol levels.

In addition to protein and fiber, pistachios are also a good source of various vitamins and minerals. They contain vitamin B6, thiamin, and phosphorus, as well as smaller amounts of other vitamins and minerals.

Despite their nutritional benefits, it’s important to remember that pistachios, like all nuts, are high in fat. One serving of pistachios contains 13 grams of fat, which is 20% of the recommended daily value. However, it’s important to note that not all fats are created equal. The fat found in pistachios is primarily monounsaturated fat, which is considered a “good” fat that can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Pistachios are also relatively low in carbs, with 8 grams per serving. This makes them a good option for those following a low-carb diet or trying to manage their blood sugar levels. It’s worth noting that the calorie and nutrient content of pistachios can vary depending on how they are prepared. For example, pistachios that are roasted and salted will have a higher calorie and sodium content than raw pistachios. Additionally, the calorie and nutrient content of pistachios that are used in recipes, such as pistachio butter or pistachio ice cream, will be different than the nutritional content of whole pistachios.