Delicious Pistachio Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More

Pistachio Pesto — a italian recipe (condiments and sauces) with 9 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

20

Total Time (min)

8

servings

293

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Delicious Pistachio Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More

Ingredients

Servings:
8
  • 1 cup pistachios, shelled (Unsalted preferred for better flavor control.)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves (Packed tightly for maximum flavor.)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (Can substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (Adjust to taste for a milder flavor.)
  • 1 cup olive oil (Extra virgin for best flavor.)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (Freshly squeezed for optimal taste.)
  • 1 tsp salt (Adjust according to taste.)
  • 1 tsp black pepper (Freshly ground for enhanced flavor.)
  • 1 cup water (To adjust the consistency of the pesto.)

Instructions

6 steps

  1. Prepare the Ingredients

    Gather all the ingredients and measure them accurately for the best results.

    Use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor.
  2. Blend the Pistachios

    In a food processor, pulse the pistachios until finely chopped.

    Be careful not to over-process; you want a coarse texture.
  3. Add Basil and Garlic

    Add the basil leaves and minced garlic to the food processor and pulse again until combined.

    Scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing.
  4. Incorporate Cheese and Lemon Juice

    Add the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, blending until smooth.

    For a vegan option, omit the cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast.
  5. Stream in Olive Oil

    With the processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

    Adjust with water if the pesto is too thick.
  6. Season and Serve

    Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately or store.

    Pesto can be refrigerated for up to a week.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Sugar-Conscious, Kidney-Friendly, Keto-Friendly, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Mediterranean. Diet: Low-Carb

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your italian meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Garlic bread
🍽️Caesar salad
🍽️Roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Delicious Pistachio Pesto Recipe for Pasta and More is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 20 minutes, it's a quick and easy option for any day of the week.

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each region of Italy has its own distinct culinary traditions, passed down through generations.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 9 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, walnuts or pine nuts can be used as alternatives.

Rate This Recipe

How was this recipe?

Share This Recipe

Nutrition Facts

8 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories150kcal
Total Fat14gg
Sodium50mgmg
Total Carbohydrates6gg
Dietary Fiber2gg
Total Sugars1gg
Protein4gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineItalian