Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta

Summer in Italy is a magical time, filled with vibrant flavors and fresh, seasonal ingredients. One of the most delightful experiences is enjoying a plate of pasta al fresco, surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Italian countryside. Inspired by these summer days, this Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta brings together the nutty richness of pistachios, the freshness of basil, and the creaminess of a luxurious sauce.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s a journey to the heart of Italy.

Day Dreaming

Inspired by Italian Summers

Imagine the sun setting over the rolling hills of the Amalfi Coast or the vibrant streets of Rome. This Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta captures the essence of Italian summer cuisine, where simplicity meets sophistication. The idea of sitting under a pergola, enjoying a leisurely meal with friends and family, inspired me to craft a dish that embodies the spirit of those perfect moments. This pasta dish is my way of bringing a little piece of that Italian summer magic into my kitchen and yours.

The Secret to This Recipe: Easy Basil Pistachio Pesto

The star of this dish is undoubtedly my Easy Basil Pistachio Pesto, a delightful twist on traditional pesto that brings a unique flavor profile to the table. Made with fresh basil, roasted pistachios, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil, this pesto is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in just minutes using a mason jar and immersion blender for convenience and easy cleanup. For the full recipe, visit amandapetito.com.

Substitutions, Tips, and Adding Protein

Substitutions:

• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• In a Pinch: If you aren’t able to make your own pesto, substitute for store bought.

Tips for Making:

• Pasta: Use your favorite pasta or have fun experimenting with new shapes. I enjoy using casarecce for this.
• Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. It helps to thicken the sauce and ensures it adheres to the pasta.
• Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice not only balances the richness of the cream but also enhances the fresh flavors of the pesto.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly grated parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor.

Adding Protein:

• Grilled Chicken: Add slices of grilled chicken breast for a hearty addition.
• Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu cubes add a delightful texture and protein boost.

Ingredients!

• 12 oz pasta of choice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Freshly cracked black pepper (5 turns)
• 1/2 cup pasta water
• 1 cup grated parmesan
• 1/2 lemon juice (optional for a zesty addition)
• 1 cup Easy Basil Pistachio Pesto (recipe on amandapetito.com)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crushed pistachios and fresh basil to garnish

Instructions :

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions and set aside. Save 1/2 cup or more of pasta water for the sauce.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large pan, combine the heavy cream, freshly cracked black pepper, 1/4 cup pasta water, lemon juice, and grated parmesan. Mix over medium heat until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

3. Combine with Pesto and Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and my Easy Basil Pistachio Pesto to the pan. Mix thoroughly to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy pesto sauce. Add more pasta water if needed.

4. Season and Garnish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with crushed pistachios and fresh basil for a touch of elegance.

Buon Appetito!