Chestnuts

A symbol of strength and success, chestnuts are always on New Year's Eve menus in Japan.

Health benefits: Low in calories and fat, chestnuts are a great snacking choice. However, unlike other nuts, chestnuts are high in carbohydrates. Chestnuts are the only nuts that contain vitamin C (one ounce of boiled chestnuts provides 7.6 grams). Chestnuts are a good source of potassium and folate. Potassium, an electrolyte, is necessary for regulating the heartbeat and maintaining regular muscle contractions.

Nutritional value: One ounce (10 nuts): 54 calories; 1.8 grams of fat.

How to add them to your diet: Try this twist on roasting (open fire optional) — in Modena, Italy, chestnuts are soaked in wine before roasting. Or, serve them candied and call it marrons glacés, in the French cooking style.