Pistachio Pesto Pasta (30 Minutes)

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This recipe combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a vibrant and aromatic pesto sauce. Paired with the wide, ribbon-like strands of tagliatelle pasta, this dish not only delivers on taste but also presents a delightful texture contrast.

It’s perfect for a sophisticated dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful blend of rustic charm and gourmet flair.

Ingredients

Units Scale
For the Pistachio Pesto:
  • 1 cup shelled pistachios, roasted and unsalted
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
For the Pasta:
  • 1 lb tagliatelle pasta
  • Salt for pasta water

Instructions

  1. Make Pistachio Pesto (10 minutes): In a food processor, combine the pistachios, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped. While the processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  2. Cook Tagliatelle Pasta (10-12 minutes): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tagliatelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
  3. Combine Pasta and Pesto (5 minutes): In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pistachio pesto. Add a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
  4. Serve (2 minutes): Serve the pistachio pesto pasta hot, optionally garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese, chopped pistachios, or fresh basil leaves.

Notes

The key to perfecting this dish lies in the quality of the pesto. Roasted pistachios add depth to the pesto, while fresh basil provides a bright and herby backdrop. The lemon juice in the pesto brings a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the nuts and cheese.

Be sure to cook the tagliatelle until it’s al dente to maintain its texture. Pair this dish with a crusty bread to wipe up any remaining pesto from your plate and a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/pistachio-pesto-pasta-30-minutes/