Almonds have great health properties, as well as an intense flavor and a unique texture. That is why they are a healthy, versatile and highly demanded snack nowadays.
If you want to find out about their benefits, qualities and properties, as well as the most popular varieties, read on. We tell you everything you need to know about almonds.
Main varieties of Spanish almonds
Thanks to its high quality, high nutritional value and exquisite flavor, the Spanish almond has become a highly sought-after nut all over the world. In fact, did you know that Spain is one of the world’s leading producers?
Most of its production comes from Andalusia, although it is not the only area where you can find these delicious healthy snacks. Moreover, there are different varieties, the main ones being the ones we show you below.
Marcona almond
This is the highest quality variety. Appreciated for its great organoleptic properties, its smooth texture and intense sweet taste. It is used to make nougat, but it is also ideal to be consumed as a snack. It is characterized by its small round size.
Largueta Almond
Unlike the Marcona almond, this variety has a more elongated, narrow and flat shape. It is mainly used as a toasted and salted snack, but it can also be used to prepare various products (caramelized almonds, typical Christmas sweets, etc.).
Valencia or Comuna Almond
The Comuna variety, also known as Valencia, is the result of the mixture of different types of high quality almonds (Guara, Marcona, Ferragnes…). It is characterized by its very sweet taste, which is why it is one of the most commonly used in confectionery.
What are the great benefits of almonds?
Now that you know the main varieties of Spanish almonds and their characteristics, it is time to discover the benefits of this popular nut.
Versatile and tasty, they can be eaten on their own, as a healthy snack, or as an accompaniment to all kinds of recipes: salads, sautéed vegetables, stews, pasta… In this way, not only do we consume a food of great nutritional value, but we also add a unique and different flavor and texture to the dish.
And what are its nutritional properties? A serving of 28 grams provides:
- 164 calories.
- 6,1 g of carbohydrates.
- 13,8 g of healthy fats of which 8.6 g are monounsaturated and 3.4 g are polyunsaturated.
- 197 mg of potassium.
- 136 mg of phosphorus.
- 75 mg of magnesium.
- 73,9 mg of calcium.
- 7,3 mg of vitamin E.
- 0,3 mg of vitamin B2.
Antioxidant properties
Almonds have a high antioxidant power. They are rich in vitamin E, which prevents premature skin aging and cellular oxidation. In addition, their high flavonoid content provides anti-inflammatory qualities and the B vitamins (riboflavin, vitamin B2, etc.) help care for the skin and mucous membranes, especially the cornea.
Great source of energy
These delicious nuts also provide a high amount of protein. This makes it an ideal healthy snack for everyone, especially athletes, children and adolescents.
They are also high in phosphorus and unsaturated fats, which improve intellectual performance, combat memory loss and improve mood.
They help reduce cholesterol
Other health benefits of almonds? They reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood and increase good cholesterol (HDL), which in turn helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is because they are high in healthy fats.
On the other hand, by providing flavonoids such as quercetin, rutinosides or catechins, they improve the circulatory system.
They facilitate intestinal transit
Almonds have a high fiber content, which helps to improve intestinal transit. Thus, their consumption reduces the risk of suffering hemorrhoids, constipation, intestinal ulcers or diarrhea.
They prevent diabetes
Almonds are not only rich in protein, fiber and healthy fats. They are also rich in magnesium, a key mineral for controlling blood sugar. Therefore, they are great allies in the prevention of diabetes.
They improve bone health
Did you know that almonds are the perfect substitute for dairy products? These nuts are high in calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which makes them a great ally for the care of bones and teeth.
El Nogal Wellness nuts, supplier of high quality Spanish almonds
El Nogal wellness nuts is a manufacturer of premium almonds. It supplies the food sector and retailers with the highest quality Spanish varieties, such as Marcona almonds, largueta and Valencia almonds. Unique reciper with natural ingredients and elaborations for lovers of Mediterranean gastronomy.
If you would like more information, please contact El Nogal. We will be happy to help and advise you on everything you need.