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5 from 2 votes

Pistachio Pesto Pasta

Pistachio Pesto is a Sicilian take on the classic basil pesto. Tossed with pasta it makes the perfect quick and easy meal. Great to make ahead, keep a batch of this delicious pesto on hand at all times!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 679kcal
Author: Carrie Carvalho

Ingredients

  • 500 grams your favourite pasta shapes

Pistachio Pesto

  • 150 grams pistachio kernels
  • 10 grams fresh basil
  • 75 grams parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 120 ml olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • zest from 1 lemon

Optional Garnishes

  • roughly chopped pistachio kernels
  • grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to packet instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water before draining.
    500 grams your favourite pasta shapes
  • While the pasta is cooking, make the pesto. Add all the ingredients to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Add extra salt and/or lemon zest to taste.
    10 grams fresh basil, 75 grams parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, 120 ml olive oil, ½ tsp salt, zest from 1 lemon, roughly chopped pistachio kernels
  • Add the pesto to the warm pot used to cook the pasta (but not over heat). Stir through the cooked pasta and add the reserved cooking water, a little at a time, to reach your desired sauciness. The pasta cooking water will help the pesto to stick to the pesto.
  • Serve garnished with some extra grated parmesan cheese and/or some chopped pistachios.
    grated parmesan cheese, roughly chopped pistachio kernels

Notes

The pesto will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze for up to 3 months.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 679kcal | Carbohydrates: 70g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 22g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 401mg | Potassium: 458mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 250IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 197mg | Iron: 2mg