Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) are a legume that originated in South America. They go by a variety of names, such as groundnuts, earthnuts, and goobers. Despite their name, peanuts are unrelated to tree nuts. As a legume, they’re related to beans, lentils, and soy.

Peanuts provide protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They may have other health benefits, including promoting fullness and helping protect against heart disease.