Take your pasta game to the next level with this vibrant and flavorful Pistachio Pesto Sauce. A unique twist on traditional pesto, this recipe combines the richness of raw pistachios with fresh basil, spinach, cilantro, and a hint of mint for a refreshing and bold flavor. Enhanced with citrusy lime and lemon juice, this pesto has a zesty kick, perfectly balanced by Parmesan cheese and olive oil. Ideal for pasta lovers looking to try something new, this dish is a delicious and nutritious way to elevate your meal.
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup raw pistachios
- 2 cups fresh basil
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 2-3 fresh mint leaves
- 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Juice of 1/2 small lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine the raw pistachios, fresh basil, spinach, cilantro, mint leaves, and minced garlic. Blend briefly until all the ingredients are finely chopped and thoroughly mixed together.
- Add Citrus and Seasoning: Pour in the juice of half a lime and half a small lemon. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to blend until smooth.
- Incorporate Olive Oil and Parmesan: While the food processor is operating, gradually pour in the olive oil until the pesto achieves your preferred thickness. Finally, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and pulse again until everything is fully combined and creamy.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, making sure to set aside approximately 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- Toss the Pasta with Pesto: Add the cooked pasta back into the pot or a large mixing bowl. Toss with the pistachio pesto, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta evenly and make the sauce silky.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, crushed pistachios, or fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion:
This Pistachio Pesto Pasta is a delightful change from the traditional pesto. The earthy pistachios paired with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus juices create a bright, rich, and slightly nutty sauce that perfectly complements your favorite pasta. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal dish for a quick dinner or lunch, full of both taste and texture.
Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup raw pistachios
- 2 cups fresh basil
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 2-3 fresh mint leaves
- 3 teaspoons garlic minced
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Juice of 1/2 small lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine the raw pistachios, fresh basil, spinach, cilantro, mint leaves, and minced garlic. Blend briefly until all the ingredients are finely chopped and thoroughly mixed together.
- Add Citrus and Seasoning: Pour in the juice of half a lime and half a small lemon. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to blend until smooth.
- Incorporate Olive Oil and Parmesan: While the food processor is operating, gradually pour in the olive oil until the pesto achieves your preferred thickness. Finally, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and pulse again until everything is fully combined and creamy.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, making sure to set aside approximately 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- Toss the Pasta with Pesto: Add the cooked pasta back into the pot or a large mixing bowl. Toss with the pistachio pesto, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta evenly and make the sauce silky.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, crushed pistachios, or fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!