You think of them for pie. You adore them in pralines. But did you know pecans are actually extremely nutrient dense?

So don't be fooled by their rich, buttery texture and naturally sweet taste.

Pecans contain the same beneficial unsaturated fats that are found in other nuts, and nearly two decades of research suggests that nuts, including pecans, may help promote heart health.

In each 1-ounce serving of raw pecans you’ll get 12 grams of “good” monounsaturated fat, with zero cholesterol or sodium.1 Compared to other nuts, pecans are among the lowest in carbs and highest in fiber.

The macronutrient profile of pecans is appealing to many people: protein (3 grams), carbohydrate (4 grams) and fat (20 grams).

A handful of pecans – about 19 halves – is a good source of fiber, thiamin and zinc, and an excellent source of copper and manganese.

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How to Store Pecans

To protect the pecan’s rich oils and buttery taste, do not store shelled pecans at room temperature. For the best quality, always keep your shelled pecans in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about nine months in an airtight container, and up to two years in a sealed plastic bag in the freezer. Pecans can be thawed and frozen repeatedly during the two-year freezing period without loss of flavor or texture. You do not need to thaw pecans before using them in recipes. However, it’s best to let frozen pecans reach room temperature if you want to grind them for pecan meal. For in-shell pecans, you can store them in a cool, dry place for up to a year.

This Guide will help you in choosing pecans and how to store them.

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