Pasta con Pesto di Pistacchi

Pasta con Pesto di Pistacchi is a vibrant Italian dish that features a creamy, nutty pistachio pesto tossed with al dente pasta. This unique twist on traditional pesto not only delights the palate but also packs a protein punch, making it a satisfying lunch option.

Pasta con Pesto di Pistacchi
20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Italian
600 kcal

Ingredients

  • Pasta (fusilli or spaghetti) - 200 grams
  • Pistachios (shelled) - 100 grams
  • Fresh basil leaves - 30 grams
  • Parmesan cheese (grated) - 50 grams
  • Garlic - 2 cloves
  • Olive oil - 60 ml
  • Salt - to taste
  • Black pepper - to taste
  • Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon

Steps

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a food processor, combine the pistachios, basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
  3. With the food processor running, gradually add the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pistachio pesto, tossing until the pasta is well coated.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 600
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Carbs: 70 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
  • Total Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
  • Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein due to pistachios and Parmesan cheese, supporting muscle growth and repair.
  • Rich in healthy fats from pistachios and olive oil, promoting heart health.

Tags

ItalianHigh ProteinLunch