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2012-11-06

Pasta with Pistachio Pesto

Pasta with Pistachio Pesto

This pasta with pistachio is a delicious dish you can cook and serve your guests. The origin of pasta with pistachio pesto can be traced back to the region of Sicily in Italy. Sicily is known for its rich culinary heritage, and pistachios are a key ingredient in many Sicilian dishes.
Pistachios have been cultivated in Sicily for centuries, and they are a prized ingredient in Sicilian cuisine. The combination of ground pistachios, olive oil, garlic, and other herbs and spices creates a flavorful and vibrant pesto sauce.
Pasta with pistachio pesto is a delicious and unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. It showcases the rich and nutty flavor of the pistachios, which pairs well with various types of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. The dish is often garnished with additional chopped pistachios and grated cheese, adding even more texture and flavor.
While the exact origin of pasta with pistachio pesto is unclear, it is safe to say that it developed in Sicily, where pistachios are abundant and highly valued in the local cuisine. Over time, this delightful combination of ingredients has gained popularity beyond Sicily and can now be found in various Italian and Mediterranean-inspired restaurants worldwide.

pasta with pistachio presto
Makes 8 servings

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups unsalted, shelled roasted natural pistachios
  • 1 cup chopped tomato
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • a handful of fresh mint leaves
  • a handful of Parmesan, freshly grated
  • a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • a pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or more)
  • 1 pound freshly cooked pasta

  • Directions:

    Pulse 1 1/2 cups unsalted, shelled roasted natural pistachios, 1 cup chopped tomato, 2 garlic cloves, a handful of fresh mint leaves, a handful of grated Parmesan, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper in a food processor until a coarse purée form. Transfer to a bowl; stir in 2 tablespoons olive oil (or more) to form a thick, chunky sauce. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Toss 1 cup pesto with 1 pound freshly cooked pasta, adding pasta cooking liquid by the tablespoonful to form a glossy sauce. 
    Chill remaining pesto to spread on sandwiches.

    Nutritional value for Pasta with pistachio pesto:

    Carbohydrates: Pasta is primarily composed of carbohydrates, which provide energy. The amount of carbohydrates in the dish will depend on the type of pasta used and the portion size. On average, a 1-cup serving of cooked pasta contains around 40-45 grams of carbohydrates.
    Protein: Pistachios, the main ingredient in the pesto sauce, are a good source of plant-based protein. They also contain all nine essential amino acids. Additionally, pasta itself contains a small amount of protein. The protein content in a serving of pasta with pistachio pesto can range from 10-15 grams.
    Fats: Pistachios are relatively high in fat, but they mostly consist of heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Olive oil, another common ingredient in pesto, is also a source of healthy fats. However, the amount of fat in the dish will depend on the quantity of pistachios and olive oil used in the pesto sauce. On average, a serving of pasta with pistachio pesto may contain 10-15 grams of fat.
    Fiber: Pistachios and whole wheat pasta, if used, are good sources of dietary fiber. Fiber promotes digestive health, helps control blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness. A serving of pasta with pistachio pesto may provide 3-5 grams of dietary fiber.
    Vitamins and minerals: Pistachios are rich in several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, thiamin, copper, manganese, and phosphorus. Additionally, herbs such as basil and garlic used in the pesto sauce can provide small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

    Thank you.Alex