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Pistachip pesto in a small bowl with pistachios on a wooden board.

Easy Pistachio Pesto Recipe (Basil Pasta Sauce)

Allie Hagerty
Try my easy 5-minute pistachio pesto recipe with fresh basil leaves and raw pistachios. It’s perfect for pasta, fish, or snacks! This recipe makes 1 1/2 cups.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Sauce
Servings 24 servings

Equipment

  • measuring spoons
  • measuring cups
  • food processor

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup basil *packed cup* 36 g
  • 1/2 cup shelled pistachios 75 g
  • 1 clove garlic peeled
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese 126 g
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated pecorino romano cheese 50 g
  • 7 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 74 g
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions
 

  • Start by adding fresh basil leaves, pistachios, garlic, and a pinch of salt to the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment.
  • Pulse the ingredients until the basil leaves are finely chopped and all the ingredients are well combined.
  • Next, incorporate the two cheeses into the mixture and pulse again until everything is evenly distributed.
  • With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream.
  • Continue to process until the sauce reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
  • Don't forget to taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a bit more salt or pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Notes

Add Olive Oil Gradually - Pour the olive oil in a steady stream while the food processor is running. This helps to emulsify the pesto and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
Scrape the Sides of the Food Processor - Periodically stop the food processor and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are evenly processed. This prevents large chunks and ensures a uniform texture.
Avoid Overprocessing - Pulse the ingredients rather than running the food processor continuously. This prevents the basil from bruising too much and turning brown, keeping your pesto vibrant green.

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 77kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 122mgPotassium: 39mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 104IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 64mgIron: 0.2mg
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