Pistachio Basil Pesto Blend

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This pistachio pesto blends shelled pistachios, fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to create a rich, nutty sauce. Olive oil is gradually added for a smooth, spreadable texture that brightens with optional lemon juice. Ideal for tossing with pasta, spreading on bread, or drizzling over grilled vegetables, this sauce combines ease and vibrant flavors in just 10 minutes.

For variations, nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan to suit vegan preferences. The sauce stores well refrigerated for up to five days, making it a versatile addition to many dishes.

Updated on Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:21:43 GMT
A bowl of vibrant green pistachio pesto, rich and aromatic, perfect for tossing with pasta or spreading on crostini.  Save
A bowl of vibrant green pistachio pesto, rich and aromatic, perfect for tossing with pasta or spreading on crostini. | pecangroove.com

This vibrant, nutty pistachio pesto is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian sauce. By combining fresh basil with the rich, earthy flavor of ground pistachios, you create a sophisticated and aromatic condiment that brings a gourmet touch to any simple meal.

A bowl of vibrant green pistachio pesto, rich and aromatic, perfect for tossing with pasta or spreading on crostini.  Save
A bowl of vibrant green pistachio pesto, rich and aromatic, perfect for tossing with pasta or spreading on crostini. | pecangroove.com

Whether you are looking to elevate a weeknight pasta dish or add a flavorful spread to your next charcuterie board, this easy-to-make pesto provides the perfect balance of garlic, cheese, and high-quality olive oil.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (130 g) shelled unsalted pistachios
  • 2 cups (50 g) fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1/3 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1
Place the pistachios, basil leaves, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
Step 2
Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few more times to combine.
Step 3
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth, spreadable paste.
Step 4
Taste and add lemon juice if desired, pulsing briefly to combine.
Step 5
Use immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a perfectly even texture, use a spatula to scrape down the sides of your food processor or blender during the pulsing steps. This ensures every pistachio and basil leaf is integrated into the paste.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. If you have a nut allergy, pumpkin seeds can be used as a substitute for pistachios to maintain the green color.

Serviervorschläge

This pesto is perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on crostini, or drizzling over grilled vegetables. For a thinner sauce suitable for coating pasta, try mixing in a tablespoon of warm pasta cooking water.

Creamy pistachio pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, served with crusty bread and cherry tomatoes.  Save
Creamy pistachio pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, served with crusty bread and cherry tomatoes. | pecangroove.com

With its rich aroma and emerald hue, this Pistachio Pesto is a versatile staple that proves you don't need a lot of time to create something truly delicious and fresh.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

What nuts are used in this pistachio pesto?

Unsalted shelled pistachios provide a rich, nutty base for this pesto variation.

Can the cheese be substituted for a vegan option?

Yes, nutritional yeast works well as a flavorful alternative to Parmesan cheese in this sauce.

How can I adjust the consistency for pasta?

Add pasta cooking water gradually to thin the sauce for easy tossing with pasta.

What are some serving suggestions besides pasta?

This sauce is excellent on crostini, as a spread for sandwiches, or drizzled over grilled vegetables.

How should the sauce be stored?

Keep the pesto in an airtight container refrigerated for up to five days to retain freshness.

Pistachio Basil Pesto Blend

Nutty pistachio and fresh basil come together in a vibrant sauce for pasta or veggies.

Prep Duration
10 min
0
Overall Time
10 min
By Pecan Groove Holly Emerson


Skill Level Easy

Culinary Tradition Italian

Portions 4 Number of Servings

Diet Concerns Vegetarian-Friendly, No Gluten, Low Carbohydrate

What You'll Need

Nuts & Seeds

01 1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios

Herbs & Aromatics

01 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
02 2 garlic cloves, peeled

Cheese

01 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Liquids

01 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Seasoning

01 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
02 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional

01 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Process nuts and herbs: Place the pistachios, basil leaves, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.

Step 02

Combine seasonings: Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few more times to combine.

Step 03

Emulsify with oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth, spreadable paste.

Step 04

Finish and adjust: Taste and add lemon juice if desired, pulsing briefly to combine.

Step 05

Store or serve: Use immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tools Needed

  • Food processor or blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula

Allergy Details

Always check each item for allergens and reach out to your doctor if unsure.
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios) and dairy (Parmesan cheese)
  • For nut allergies, substitute with pumpkin seeds
  • For dairy allergies, substitute with vegan cheese alternatives

Nutrition Details (per serving)

Nutrition info is a guide; don't substitute for professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 270
  • Fat content: 24 g
  • Carbohydrate: 6 g
  • Protein Amount: 7 g