The kernel from the cone of certain types of pine tree, some of which are very common in Mediterranean countries. Naturally, pine nuts often feature in traditional dishes of this region.
In Italy, pine nuts (called pignoli) go into the famous sauce Pesto alla Genovese. In Nice, France, a sweet tart is made with silverbeet, apples, pine nuts and sultanas (golden raisins). Often, a decorative pattern of pine nuts will stud Lebanese kibbi, or toasted pine nuts will be used to garnish a rice pilaf or rice salad. Roasted and salted, pine nuts can be substituted for salted almonds.
Although they are more commonly used in savoury dishes, pine nuts are also made into macaroon-type biscuits and sweets.