Pasta with Pistachio Cream

Name: Pasta with Pistachio Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice (fettuccine works well); 100g roasted pistachios, shelled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200ml heavy cream; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Inspiration

I recently discovered an exquisite way to elevate my pasta game with this Pistachio Cream recipe. The rich, nutty flavors blend seamlessly with the cream, creating a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. It's a delightful dish that surprises the palate and adds a touch of elegance to any meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so I can impress my friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a regular staple in your dining repertoire!

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:57:39.322Z

As I ventured into the world of pasta-making, I stumbled upon the idea of a pistachio cream sauce, and it has forever changed how I view pasta dishes. The combination of roasted pistachios, garlic, and cream didn’t just sound great—it turned out to be a flavor bomb! The first time I served it, the vibrant green color was an instant hit.

Each bite of pasta was enriched with the subtle sweetness of pistachios, and it felt indulgent yet light. I learned that to achieve the best flavor, toasting the pistachios elevates the nuttiness significantly. Give it a try, and you’ll never look at pasta the same way again!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy pistachio sauce that feels indulgent yet fresh
A delightful nutty flavor that pairs well with pasta
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Pasta with Pistachio Cream plays a vital role in creating the dish's luxurious texture and flavor profile. The roasted pistachios not only contribute a rich, nutty taste but also add a unique creaminess when blended. Using high-quality heavy cream is essential for achieving that indulgent mouthfeel, so opt for a brand with a higher fat content for the best results. Similarly, using fresh Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated will enhance the dish’s overall flavor and ensure a better melting quality.

Olive oil adds both richness and helps in blending the pistachios while complementing their natural oils. Fresh garlic provides a subtle hint of sweetness, balancing the nuttiness of the pistachios. Don't skip on seasoning with salt and pepper, as they elevate the flavors, allowing each ingredient to shine. Feel free to adjust the garlic level based on your preference; roasting it first can introduce a sweeter, mellower taste.

Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but enhances the dish with an aromatic freshness. I recommend using small, young basil leaves for a milder flavor, and if you're feeling adventurous, blending some basil into the pistachio cream can add an extraordinary twist.

Perfecting Your Technique

Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial; it should have a slight bite to it, which will help it hold up in the cream sauce. When draining the pasta, reserving a cup of its cooking water is a technique that can save your sauce if it becomes too thick. The starchy water will help to loosen the sauce while adding a layer of flavor, so don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

When blending the pistachios, ensure your blender is high-powered to achieve a smooth consistency. If your blender is less powerful, you may need to stop and scrape down the sides or add more olive oil. If you encounter any graininess, blend a little longer or add a small amount of cream to help emulsify everything smoothly. Achieving that creamy texture is key; it should be velvety rather than frothy.

Lastly, when you combine the pasta with the cream, stir gently over low heat. This prevents the cream from scorching and enhances the sauce's flavors, allowing everything to marry well. As the Parmesan melts into the sauce, it should become glossy and cling beautifully to the pasta strands. If at any stage your sauce feels too thick, just add more reserved pasta water gradually.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the perfect pasta with a luscious pistachio cream sauce:

Ingredients

300g pasta of your choice (fettuccine works well)
100g roasted pistachios, shelled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
200ml heavy cream
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create pasta with a delicious pistachio cream sauce:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Pistachio Cream

In a blender, combine the roasted pistachios, olive oil, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.

Combine and Serve

In the same pot, combine the drained pasta, pistachio cream, and heavy cream. Stir well over low heat and add grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the pistachio cream before mixing it with the pasta for a refreshing kick. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Pasta with Pistachio Cream is definitely best enjoyed fresh, but if you’d like to prepare it ahead of time, you can make the pistachio cream a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently in a pan, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it back up before mixing with cooked pasta.

The cooked pasta can be stored separately, but be mindful that it may absorb the cream if left to sit together, which diminishes the dish's creaminess. If you must refrigerate leftovers, store the pasta and sauce in separate containers to maintain the best texture. Reheat in a pan with a bit of olive oil and additional reserved pasta water, stirring until warmed through.

If you're considering freezing, it's best not to freeze the cream sauce itself as dairy can change texture when thawed. However, you can freeze the pistachio cream and then mix it with freshly cooked pasta later. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and always ensure to add that reserved pasta water to ensure a smooth consistency once reheated.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can stand alone beautifully, but if you're looking for protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pairs wonderfully with the rich pistachio cream. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick to the dish, enhancing its flavors without overpowering the nuttiness.

For a vegetarian option, consider adding sautéed seasonal vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini, to amp up the flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in the pan for a couple of minutes before adding the pasta for a wholesome twist that adds both color and texture.

When serving, I love to drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top and finish with a few extra crushed pistachios for a delightful crunch. Pairing the dish with a light salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette will balance the creaminess and provide a refreshing contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen pistachios?

Yes, frozen pistachios work well! Just make sure to thaw and toast them before blending.

→ What other nuts can I use?

You can try using cashews or almonds for a different flavor profile, but make sure they are roasted for the best taste.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, just ensure you use vegetarian cheese.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.