Description
Indulge in a creamy, herbaceous pasta dish that blends the nuttiness of pistachios with the freshness of basil, spinach, cilantro, and mint. This easy-to-make Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Fresh Herbs is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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!
Notes
- Storage Tip: Pesto can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Vegan Option: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a plant-based alternative.
- Freezing: Pesto freezes well; portion it into small containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Blending, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired