“Boomer” of Santa Barbara Pistachio Company
Growing Heart-Healthy, Organic Pistachios in the Cuyama Valley
Name: “Boomer”
Farm: Santa Barbara Pistachio Company
Location: 3380 Highway 33, Ventucopa, CA 93252. Open to the public, Monday-Sunday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
What They Grow: More than 10 varieties of in-shell pistachios, including the popular onion garlic and hickory smoke flavor. Specialty products also include pistachio butter, flour (high in protein), and savory pistachio oil.
Where to Buy: Farmers markets including Tuesday in downtown Santa Barbara, Wednesday in Solvang, Saturday in downtown Santa Barbara, and Sunday in Goleta and Ojai. Additionally, the company’s tasty pistachios can be found at area retailers including Cantwell’s, Lazy Acres, Metropulos, Tri-County Produce, and Whole Foods.
In Season Now: While harvest occurs during the late summer months, pistachios are a year-round treat. For the holiday season, customers can enjoy chocolate toffee pistachios, white chocolate bark, and unique sampler gifts.
Their Story: More than 20 years ago, the Zannon family began harvesting pistachios on their family farm in the hills of the Sierra Madre Range in Santa Barbara County. At an altitude of 2,900 feet, the high-desert climate of the Cuyama Valley is perfect for growing pistachios organically without pesticides or fungicides.
“It’s fun to hear pistachios pop — it’s like they’re singing to you,” said Boomer, a family friend and familiar face at the market. “We brine our pistachios, so they are extremely flavorful.”
Heart-healthy and cancer-fighting, the Santa Barbara Pistachio Company’s high-end, quality product is loaded with vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber. Pistachios are one of the healthiest, lowest calorie nuts, hot-air roasted for a tasty snack.
“All of our products are certified organic,” said Boomer. “It’s a righteous product that can’t be beat. We can guarantee they won’t be returned.”
Naturally tree-ripened, these “fancy grade” pistachios use all-natural ingredients and flavoring, ensuring maximum freshness by roasting in small batches. Featured in the L.A. Times and several cookbooks nationwide, the Santa Barbara Pistachio Company has become a mainstay at any area market.
“I love working for these guys and promoting quality products,” said Boomer. “I have the big mouth, so they stick me in the markets!”
