Today Is World Pistachio Day

LOS ANGELESFeeling nutty today? You should because Feb. 26 is World Pistachio Day, and people across the globe will join the celebration of the nutritious green nut. The pistachio contains 3 to 4 calories per nut and offers key nutrients including, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.

Originating in Asia, pistachios have been enjoyed by people as early as 7000 B.C. Today the nut is eaten all over the world. California produces more than 550 million pounds of pistachios per year, making it the worldwide leading producer. China is the global leader in total pistachio consumption at 200 million pounds per year, while Israel has the world's largest per capita consumption.

In China, the nut is referred to as the "happy nut" and given as a gift during the Chinese New Year as a symbol of health, happiness and good fortune. In India the nut is gifted as a symbol of love and good wishes during the Hindu New Year, Diwali, as well as used in a popular saffrom pistachio drink.

Australia celebrates the pistachio by serving creamy Australian yogurt with shaved pistachios in hot summer months. In Mexico, the nuts are a premium snack, served in a variety of social settings. Instead of a snack, the French serve pistachios with an "aperitif," a beverage served to stimulate the appetite before a late-afternoon meal.

How will you be celebrating World Pistachio Day?