Nanotubes and nanoparticles of SiC and Si3N4 were produced from the thermal treatment of peanut shells in argon and nitrogen atmospheres respectively, at temperatures in excess of 1350°C. Using x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy analysis, the processed samples in argon atmosphere were shown to consist of 2H and 3C polytypes of SiC nanoparticles and nanotubes. Whereas the samples prepared in nitrogen atmosphere consisted of α-phase of Si3N4. Nanostructures formed by a single direct reaction provide a sustainable synthesis route for nanostructured SiC and Si3N4, for potential engineering applications due to their exceptional mechanical and electro-optic properties.