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Pasta con Pesto di Pistacchi

Pasta con Pesto di Pistacchi

Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Equipment

  • Equipment Needed
  • Food processor
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large bowl for mixing

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios
  • 1 bunch basil leaves about 1 packed cup
  • 1 bunch mint leaves about 1 packed cup
  • 2 garlic cloves peeled
  • Fine sea salt to taste
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup finely grated Pecorino Romano or Caciocavallo cheese
  • 1 pound of dried or fresh pasta spaghettoni or your choice

Instructions
 

  • Method:
  • Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt to taste. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions or until al dente (about 8-10 minutes for dried pasta).
  • Prepare the Pistachio Pesto: While the pasta is cooking, combine the pistachios, basil, mint, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is chunky.
  • Make the Pesto Sauce: Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while the processor is running until the pesto turns smooth and creamy. Add the grated cheese and pulse a few times to combine.
  • Combine Pasta and Pesto: When the pasta is cooked, reserve some pasta water and drain the rest. Transfer the hot pasta to a large bowl and toss it with the pistachio pesto. If needed, add a little pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency. Season with extra salt to taste.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra grated cheese if desired.
  • Variations:
  • For a Vegan Option: Omit the cheese and substitute with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
  • For a Creamier Pesto: Add a spoonful of ricotta or vegan cream cheese to the pesto before mixing with pasta.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
  • Tips:
  • For a punch of flavor, you can toast the pistachios lightly before blending them.
  • If you prefer a more garlicky taste, feel free to add an extra clove of garlic.
  • Experiment with different herbs like parsley or oregano for a unique twist.
Keyword Pasta con Pesto di Pistacchi