The almond is the edible kernel of the fruit of the sweet almond tree. It is a bright white fruti and wrapped in a reddish brown cover.
It is consumed as dry fruit, fried and/or salted. Some well-known products, such as nougat and marzipan, are made of almonds.
Almonds provide a great amount of energy, proteins, minerals, vitamins and fiber. In addition, most of the fats they contain are unsaturated and reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood.
In Spain, the almond is harvested in autumn, around September, although it depends on the earliness of each variety, since at present there are early varieties like the Guara that are harvested in August. It is recommended to preserve them with shell in order to prevent rancidity.