Pistachios work better than other nuts as a crust for fish or chicken, or even quail. They aren’t as unctuous and oily, and they don’t burn or ooze when you press them into skin or flesh to be seared.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Claudia Alarcón covers food, drinks and travel in places near and far. Quail eggs have long been perceived as a high-end delicacy, ...