Easy Pistachio Pesto (For Meats, Seafood, Pasta, and Veggies)

Introduction

Delight your taste buds with this Easy Pistachio Pesto recipe that can elevate any dish, from meats and seafood to pasta and veggies. With a harmonious blend of fresh basil, toasted pistachios, lemon zest, and Parmigiano Reggiano, this pesto adds a burst of flavor to your favorite meals.

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own pesto at home allows you to customize the flavors to your liking and ensures a fresher taste compared to store-bought versions. The pistachios in this recipe add a unique nuttiness and crunch, making it a versatile and delicious condiment for various dishes.

How to Make Easy Pistachio Pesto

Ingredients:

2 cups tightly packed basil leaves
¼ cup toasted pistachios (unsalted)
1 medium lemon (zested, about 2 tsp, and juiced, about 2 Tbsp)
1 clove garlic (peeled and roughly chopped)
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
⅓ – ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Finely pulse ingredients: Place basil leaves, toasted pistachios, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped garlic in a food processor. Process until very finely chopped.
Drizzle in the olive oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil.
Stir in the Parmesan: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve Easy Pistachio Pesto

Serve this flavorful pesto over grilled meats, baked seafood, cooked pasta, or roasted vegetables. It can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for crusty bread.

How to Store Easy Pistachio Pesto

Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage; simply thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Tips to Make Easy Pistachio Pesto

Toasting the pistachios before blending enhances their flavor.
Adjust the amount of olive oil based on your desired consistency.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.

Variation

For a vegan version of this pesto, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios? Yes, you can substitute pistachios with almonds, pine nuts, or walnuts.
How long will the pesto last in the refrigerator? It can be stored for up to one week if properly refrigerated.
Is it necessary to use fresh basil or can I use dried basil? Fresh basil is recommended for the most vibrant flavor, but you can use dried basil in a pinch.