Peanut butter is the Beyonce of the food world: While it may originally have gained fame as part of a group (the classic PB&J), it’s gone on to prove that it can do much, much more. It partners well with so many other flavors that peanut butter can be used in recipes sweet or savory, and enjoyed as an ingredient, condiment, or even straight from the jar.In addition to being versatile and shelf-stable, peanut butter also packs some decent nutrition. A 2-tablespoon serving has 190 calories, 8 grams (g) of protein, 7 g of carbohydrates, 16 g of fat (only 2 g of which are saturated fat), and 3 g of fiber, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).“The protein combined with healthy fat and fiber can help us feel full and satiated,” says May Zhu, RD, LDN, the Chicago-based founder of Nutrition Happens. “So while peanut butter can be calorie-dense, it’s also a very nutritious food because it provides a variety of vitamins and minerals.” She notes that niacin is a B vitamin that supports metabolism and vitamin E plays a role in eye health. Additionally, a small 2022 study in Frontiers in Nutrition found that regular and moderate consumption of peanuts may be associated with improved triglyceride levels.Whether you prefer chunky or smooth doesn’t matter, but it is important to check the ingredients list before you choose a peanut butter jar for your recipes. Many brands add sugar, salt, and other extras. “Ideally peanuts are the primary — and first — ingredient and there are no additional added sugars or hydrogenated oils,” says Zhu. Peanut butter that’s made solely from peanuts or peanuts with salt is sometimes labeled “natural peanut butter.”As for how to enjoy it, the list is endless! “There are so many different ways to use peanut butter,” says Zhu, who likes to drizzle it over sliced bananas with some melted chocolate and freeze for a healthy sweet treat. Peanut butter can also work well in baked goods, smoothies, even salad dressing and soup (yes, really). When you get tired of PB&J, give these other creative recipe ideas a try.