
Discover a refreshing twist on traditional pesto with this Pistachio Pesto Pasta recipe. By exchanging pine nuts for pistachios, you add a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to a new level. Whether cooking a quick weeknight dinner or preparing something special for an occasion, this pasta dish is delicious and easy to make.
Ingredients for Pistachio Pesto Pasta
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients for this flavorful recipe.
For the Pistachio Pesto
- 1 cup shelled pistachios
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- 340 gr pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
- Salt, for boiling pasta
- Optional: cherry tomatoes and extra Parmesan for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
How to prepare the dish
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until firm to the bite. This typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes per the pasta shape.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta, and set aside while preparing the pistachio pesto.
2. Prepare the Pistachio Pesto
To make the pistachio pesto, place the shelled pistachios, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves into a food processor or blender. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped but not completely smooth. You still want a bit of texture in the pesto.
With the processor running, gradually add the extra virgin olive oil in a slow, steady stream. Continue blending until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined. At this point, add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Pulse once more to mix everything thoroughly.
3. Combine the Pasta and Pesto
Place the drained pasta back into the pot or a large mixing bowl. Pour the pistachio pesto over the pasta and gently toss to coat it evenly. If the pesto is too thick or dry, slowly add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time. This will help to achieve perfect consistency and ensure the pesto sticks well to the pasta.
Continue tossing the pasta until it’s thoroughly coated with the pesto.
4. Serve and Garnish
Once the pasta is ready, divide it into individual serving plates. You can garnish each plate with split cherry tomatoes for color and a sweet, fresh flavor. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or chopped pistachios on top for added texture.
Serve the dish immediately while it’s still warm and fresh.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pistachio Pesto Pasta
How to upgrade the dish
1. Use High-Quality Pistachios
For the best results, choose high-quality, unsalted pistachios. If you prefer a more pronounced nutty flavor, lightly toast the pistachios before blending them into the pesto. Be cautious not to over-toast, as burnt nuts can add bitterness to the dish.
2. Make Use of Pasta Water
The starchy water reserved from cooking the pasta is essential for loosening the pesto and helping it stick to the pasta. Add the water carefully, a little at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. This will ensure the pesto is smooth and not too thick or watery.
3. Customize the Dish to Your Taste
This recipe is versatile, allowing for a variety of additions. Adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables will make the dish healthier. Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can pair beautifully with pistachio pesto.
Conclusion: A Nutty Twist on a Classic Dish
This Pistachio Pesto Pasta is a creative take on the classic pesto pasta recipe. It brings a unique nutty flavor to the dish while maintaining the beloved freshness of traditional pesto. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe offers a quick and satisfying solution.
Enjoy the versatility and rich flavors of this pasta, and don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding your favorite toppings and sides. With minimal effort and maximum taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.