Name: Pistachio Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or penne; 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed; 1 cup unsalted pistachios (shelled); ½ cup extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves; Salt and pepper, to taste

Print Recipe

It’s that magical moment when you toss pasta into boiling water, and the aroma of freshly cooked noodles fills your kitchen. Now, imagine that moment combined with a vibrant, nutty green sauce that dances on your taste buds. creamy tahini miso noodles Yes, I’m talking about Pistachio Pesto Pasta, a dish that not only pleases the palate but also makes your kitchen smell like an Italian haven. stuffed acorn squash shrimp with squash noodles.

Picture this: it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and you’re hosting friends for a casual get-together. You want something impressive but simple. Enter Pistachio Pesto Pasta—bright, flavorful, and absolutely delightful. The first bite? Pure bliss! Trust me; your guests will be raving about it long after they’ve left your home. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Pistachio Pesto Pasta is quick to whip up, making dinner prep a breeze on busy nights
Its unique flavor profile combines nuttiness with fresh herbs for an unforgettable taste
The vibrant green color adds visual appeal, making it a showstopper at any gathering
Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve warm or cold, perfect for any occasion

I once made this dish for my friends during a potluck, and they went back for thirds! It was a hit.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta of Choice: I love using spaghetti or penne here; both capture the pesto beautifully.
Fresh Basil: Look for vibrant green leaves; they add freshness and aroma to the pesto.
Pistachios: Use unsalted nuts for better control over the seasoning; their creaminess is essential in the sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Roasted Boursin Stuffed Dates recipe.
Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor; it ties everything together perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth; never skimp on this!
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon brightens the dish and balances the flavors beautifully.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch; always opt for whole cloves instead of pre-minced.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your dish; adjust according to your taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preparing the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally while daydreaming about how amazing dinner will be!

Making the Pesto: While the pasta cooks, grab a food processor and toss in fresh basil leaves, pistachios, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped. Then slowly drizzle in olive oil while processing until smooth and creamy—a true feast for both eyes and nose!

Combining Everything: Once your pasta is cooked to perfection (and perhaps you’ve snuck a few bites), reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining it. In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot pasta with your luscious pesto. If it seems too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired creaminess.

Adding Flavor: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and season generously with salt and pepper—don’t forget to taste as you go! This step is crucial because we want every bite bursting with flavor.

Serving Up: Plate your Pistachio Pesto Pasta immediately while it’s still warm. You can garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese or even some toasted pistachios for added crunch—because who doesn’t love that extra texture? spicy peanut ramen.

Feel free to pair this dish with some crusty bread or a light salad for an even more delightful experience!

And there you have it—a deliciously easy recipe that’s bound to impress! Enjoy every mouthful of this vibrant Pistachio Pesto Pasta—your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know

This delightful Pistachio Pesto Pasta packs a punch of flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare
The vibrant green color and nutty aroma will make your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant
Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself on a cozy night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta, then prepare the pesto in a food processor while the pasta cooks. Combine them seamlessly for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute basil with spinach or arugula for a unique twist. Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain texture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best flavor, use fresh ingredients like basil and high-quality olive oil
Toasting pistachios enhances their nuttiness and adds depth
Avoid overcooking the pasta to keep it al dente and perfectly paired with the pesto

Making this delightful dish always brings back memories of my friends devouring it at my last dinner party, leaving me with empty plates and happy hearts.

FAQ

Can I use different nuts for the pesto?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can also work wonderfully in this recipe.

How can I make this vegan?

Simply omit any cheese you might add to the pesto and use nutritional yeast instead.

What pasta goes best with Pistachio Pesto?

Any pasta works well, but spaghetti or fusilli are particularly great choices for holding onto that luscious pesto!