Pasta with Pistachio Cream

Name: Pasta with Pistachio Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; Salt (for boiling water); 150g shelled pistachios; 150ml heavy cream; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired Collection

I absolutely adore this Pasta with Pistachio Cream. The first time I made it, I was surprised by how simple yet luxurious it felt. The creamy, nutty sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. I often serve it during dinner parties or cozy family meals, and it never fails to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can elevate your weeknight dinners into something truly special. Trust me, this dish will become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:13:37.625Z

When I first discovered the combination of pasta and pistachio cream, I was intrigued. I decided to experiment, and the result blew me away. The creamy texture and nutty flavor create a perfect marriage with the pasta, and each bite is truly satisfying.

I learned that to achieve the best flavor, it's important to toast the pistachios lightly. This enhances their natural oils, adding richness to the overall sauce. The quick preparation means I often whip this up when I want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxurious, creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully
Unique flavor combination that impresses every guest
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Pistachio Cream

The key to a smooth and creamy pistachio sauce lies in the blending technique. Use a high-powered food processor to ensure the pistachios are ground finely before adding the cream and cheese. This helps to achieve that luxurious texture. If you notice the sauce is still grainy, pulse it longer until it reaches a glossy, velvety consistency. Remember, the balance of ingredients also matters; if the cream overpowers the pistachios, the dish won't have the same nutty essence.

If you prefer a lighter version of the sauce, consider substituting the heavy cream with a blend of Greek yogurt and a splash of milk. This alternative maintains the creaminess while offering a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the nuts. Additionally, for those who are dairy-free, you can swap the Parmesan with nutritional yeast to achieve a savory flavor that complements the dish.

Timing and Techniques

Timing is crucial in cooking the pasta to perfection. Aim for "al dente" which means the pasta should still have a slight bite. This texture not only provides a pleasant mouthfeel but also helps the pasta hold onto the creamy sauce. As you cook the pasta, start preparing the pistachio cream around the same time to keep the overall cooking time short, ideally under 30 minutes from start to finish.

When tossing the pasta with the sauce, it's essential to add a bit of the reserved pasta water gradually. This helps in achieving that ideal coat of sauce around each noodle. If the mixture appears dry, feel free to splash in some extra water. The residual starch in the pasta water not only enhances the sauce's consistency but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta of your choice
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Pistachio Cream Sauce

150g shelled pistachios
150ml heavy cream
2 garlic cloves, minced
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to use high-quality pistachios for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Pistachio Cream

In a food processor, combine the pistachios, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until finely ground. Add the cream and Parmesan cheese, blending until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Combine and Serve

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pistachio cream sauce. Mix in additional reserved pasta water if needed. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your delicious Pasta with Pistachio Cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Pasta with Pistachio Cream is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various proteins. Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can elevate the dish, adding a hearty element alongside the creamy sauce. For a vegetarian twist, consider tossing in roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes, which add both color and taste, creating a well-rounded meal.

If you're looking to impress at a dinner party, consider serving this pasta with a light side salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette. The acidity from the salad helps to cut through the creaminess of the pasta, providing a nice balance to the meal.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of heavy cream or pasta water to rejuvenate the sauce, avoiding dryness. Heat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming without burning the sauce.

If you're planning to make it ahead, consider preparing the pistachio cream in advance and storing it separately. When you're ready to serve, cook the pasta, reheat the cream, and combine. This method keeps the freshness of the flavors intact, making it incredibly convenient for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can work well, but adjust the flavors accordingly.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

You can make it vegan by using non-dairy cream and omitting the Parmesan cheese.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this pasta beautifully.