Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of pasta
- 1 cup of shelled pistachios
- 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto by combining the pistachios, basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender.
3. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped.
4. With the food processor or blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
6. Add the pesto to the pasta and toss until the pasta is coated evenly.
7. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 17g
- Fiber: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute pine nuts or walnuts for the pistachios.
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer.
Variations:
- Add cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the pasta for extra flavor and color.
- Use the pesto as a spread for sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- Toast the pistachios before making the pesto for extra flavor.
- Reserve some of the pasta cooking water to thin out the pesto if it is too thick.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped pistachios.
Garnishes:
- Chopped pistachios
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pesto is too thick, add a little bit of pasta cooking water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or equipment used in the preparation of the recipe.
Food history:
- Pesto originated in Genoa, Italy and traditionally contains basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil.
Flavor profiles:
- This dish is savory, nutty, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main course or as a side dish.
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Region: Italian