PECANS. Being native
to roughly 150 counties in Texas, the pecan tree is the state tree of
Texas. Popular for both landscaping and
as a source of nuts, the pecan tree is a terrific addition to any area. Most of
the pecan questions that come through our office deal with tree or nut issues;
however, I wanted to take a moment to focus on their health benefits. Pecans
are packed with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats which can help lower
blood cholesterol when substituted for foods high in saturated fats. In addition to good fats, pecans serve as an
excellent source for many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, and
E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. To top it off, the USDA ranks pecans as the
most antioxidant-rich tree nut. Antioxidants are known for their age defying
characteristics. Looking for a way to
increase pecans in your diet? Everyone
knows pecans are great in pies and pralines, but they are also tasty to eat
with yogurt, fruits, or on salads. At the bottom of this post I
have shared a few of my favorite recipes if you are looking to change up your
pecan routine.
If you are interested in growing your own pecan trees (and
not so much the nutritional benefits), Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers
a detailed publication filled with information and you may download a copy of
this publication here.
PECAN ORDER INFORMATION. Speaking of pecans, it’s pecan
order time! All orders must be received
by the Extension office by October 13th and orders will be available for pick
up the week before Thanksgiving. Halves
and pieces are available in one, three, and five pounds. For your convenience, we have multiple ways
to order. To order online visit https://huntagrilife.ecwid.com/. You may email your order to
hunt-tx@ag.tamu.edu. Additionally, you
may place your order by calling (903) 455-9885 or stopping by the Hunt County
Extension office, 2217 Washington Street, Greenville, TX 75401.
As always, if you have questions, concerns, or just want to
chat, please feel free to come by the Hunt County AgriLife Extension office,
2217 Washington Street, Greenville, Texas, 75401, call (903) 455-9885, or email
Sarah.Latham@ag.tamu.edu.
Links to Pecan Recipes:
- 8 Amazingly Delicious and Healthy Pecan Recipes
- Healthy Pecan Recipes
- 10 Healthy Pecan Dessert Recipes
