Pistachio Pesto: How to Use it in the Kitchen

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Pistachio Pesto: How to Use it in Cooking

The pistachio pesto is a very versatile condiment, used in Mediterranean cuisine to enrich the flavour of first courses, main courses and appetisers. Thanks to its creamy texture and delicate flavour, this condiment is appreciated by adults and children alike. In this article, we will guide you through how to use pistachio pesto in the kitchen, proposing original and tasty recipes.

What is Pistachio Pesto?

Pistachio pesto is a sauce made from pistachios, oil, cheese and spices, used to flavour dishes. This condiment has a creamy consistency and a deep green colour, due to the presence of a significant amount of roasted pistachios. Pistachio pesto can be used to season pasta, rice, meat, fish and even croutons.

How to Prepare Pistachio Pesto at Home

Pistachio pesto can be prepared at home with just a few ingredients and without the use of preservatives or artificial additives. Here are the ingredients needed to prepare homemade pistachio pesto:

  • 200g shelled pistachios
  • 100ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 50g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 50g grated pecorino cheese
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare the pistachio pesto, toast the pistachios in a non-stick pan, taking care not to burn them. Once toasted, chop the pistachios with the garlic in a blender until a grainy consistency is achieved. Then add the oil, parmesan, pecorino, salt and pepper and blend until creamy. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a little bit of the pasta cooking water to make it more fluid.

How to Use Pistachio Pesto in Cooking

Pistachio pesto is a very versatile condiment that can be used in numerous recipes. Here are some ideas for using pistachio pesto in the kitchen:

Pistachio Pesto with Pasta

Pistachio pesto is a perfect dressing for pasta. You can use it to prepare a tasty and original first course to serve at a dinner with friends or on a Sunday with the family. To prepare pasta with pistachio pesto, cook the pasta in plenty of salted water, drain when al dente and toss with the pistachio pesto, adding a few cherry tomatoes cut in half and a few chopped pistachios if you wish.

Pistachio Pesto with Fish

Pistachio pesto is also a perfect condiment to accompany fish. You can use it to season fish fillets, such as salmon or sea bass, or to prepare a tasty sauce to serve with prawns or squid. To prepare the pistachio pesto sauce, mix the seasoning with a little lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil, and season the fish as desired.

Pistachio Pesto with Meat

Pistachio pesto can also be used to season meat. You can use it to season a beef or chicken steak, or to enhance the flavour of meatballs or burgers. To prepare pistachio pesto meatballs, mix minced meat with breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan cheese and pistachio pesto, and cook the meatballs in a frying pan or in the oven.

Pistachio Pesto with Croutons

Pistachio pesto is also an excellent choice for preparing tasty crostini. You can spread the sauce on toasted bread croutons, and top it with diced cherry tomatoes, fresh cheese or prosciutto. Pistachio pesto croutons are an original idea for an aperitif with friends or for a buffet.

Conclusions

The pistachio pesto is a versatile and tasty condiment, perfect for adding flavour to everyday dishes or for preparing original and creative recipes. Thanks to its creamy texture and mild flavour, this condiment is enjoyed by young and old alike. Try making it at home following our recipe, and use it to enrich your favourite dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can pistachio pesto be stored in the refrigerator? Yes, pistachio pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Cover it with cling film or aluminium foil to prevent it from oxidising.
  2. Does pistachio pesto contain gluten? No, pistachio pesto does not contain gluten. It is therefore also suitable for people with coeliac disease.
  3. What are the ingredients of pistachio pesto? The ingredients of pistachio pesto are shelled pistachios, extra virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, grated pecorino cheese, garlic, salt and pepper.
  4. Can pistachio pesto be frozen? Yes, pistachio pesto can be frozen. We recommend that you divide it into portions and freeze it in airtight containers.
  5. What are the variations of pistachio pesto? Variations of pistachio pesto can include the use of basil, parsley, almonds