If you crave a pasta dish that's vibrant, decadent, and comes together in a flash, this is the one! Creamy 5 Ingredient Pistachio Pesto Pasta bursts with nutty, herby goodness, coated in a silky, dreamy sauce that's pure comfort food.
This recipe is a total weeknight lifesaver: five simple ingredients and one pot deliver showstopping flavor. The pistachios bring a sweet, toasty richness and gorgeous green hue, making every twirl of pasta feel extra special.
Perfect for busy nights, low-key entertaining, or impressing anyone at your table with almost zero effort. This pasta was inspired by a dish I tried on vacation in Sicily, and it's become a forever favorite in my own kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 20 minutes, start to finish
- Ultra-creamy sauce without any heavy cream
- Uses only 5 simple, easy-to-find ingredients
- A nutty, vibrant twist on classic pesto pasta
- Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests
Key Ingredients for Creamy 5 Ingredient Pistachio Pesto Pasta
See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.Pistachios
These vibrant green nuts are the star of the show, lending a unique sweetness and rich, buttery depth to the pesto. For best results, use shelled, unsalted pistachios so you can control the saltiness. If you're in a pinch, roasted pistachios work too-just skip any with added flavors. Can't find pistachios? Try cashews for a similar creamy texture or classic pine nuts for a different nuance.
Fresh Basil
Basil gives the pesto its iconic herbal aroma and refreshing flavor. Always opt for fresh basil leaves, avoiding dried or wilted stems for the brightest, punchiest taste. If you're feeling adventurous, a mix of basil and baby spinach keeps the sauce green and vibrant, especially when basil is scarce.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan provides a savory kick and helps the pesto cling to every strand of pasta. Grate your own for the best flavor and creaminess. For a vegetarian option, use a vegetarian hard cheese or nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy vibe.
Olive Oil
A good drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil brings richness and marries all the flavors together. Choose a fruity, high-quality oil for the best taste. If needed, a neutral oil like avocado will work in a pinch, though you'll miss some of the signature peppery notes olive oil provides.
Pasta
Short or long cut pasta both excel here-penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or linguine all deliver. Pick your favorite based on what you have on hand! For gluten-free needs, use a chickpea or brown rice pasta and cook accordingly.
Instructions for Creamy 5 Ingredient Pistachio Pesto Pasta
See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.Boil Your Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook just until al dente, according to package directions. Before draining, scoop out at least one cup of pasta water for the sauce-this starchy magic will make everything creamy.
Make the Pistachio Pesto
While the pasta cooks, add pistachios, basil, Parmesan, and ½ teaspoon salt to a food processor. Pulse several times until the nuts are finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly stream in the olive oil and a few tablespoons of pasta water, blending until smooth and creamy. If it's too thick, add a splash more pasta water.
Toss It All Together
Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour the pesto over the pasta and toss vigorously, adding reserved pasta water a bit at a time until every noodle is glossy and coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and black pepper.
Serve and Garnish
Swirl the creamy pasta onto plates or bowls. Top generously with extra Parmesan, more chopped pistachios, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately while warm and luscious!
Recipe Variations
Make It Vegan
Swap out the Parmesan for nutritional yeast or your favorite plant-based hard cheese. The pesto stays ultra-creamy with the pistachio base, so you won't miss a thing!
Add Some Citrus Zing
Try blending in the zest of one lemon or a squeeze of juice for a bright, sunny twist. It accentuates the herby flavors and adds a refreshing pop.
Boost the Greens
Mix in a handful of baby spinach, arugula, or even fresh parsley with the basil for a different green pesto flavor. This is a great way to use up leftover greens and add extra nutrients.
Go Gluten-Free
Simply choose your favorite gluten-free pasta, such as brown rice or chickpea. Cook carefully according to package directions, since gluten-free pasta is often more delicate.
Amp It Up With Garlic
For a little extra punch, add a clove of fresh garlic or a sprinkle of garlic powder to the pesto before blending.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve your Creamy 5 Ingredient Pistachio Pesto Pasta with a crisp arugula salad, roasted cherry tomatoes, or grilled vegetables. Top each serving with a shower of Parmesan, extra chopped pistachios, and a few fresh basil leaves for garnish. If you're looking for added protein, pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas on the side.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. The pesto sauce can also be made ahead and stored separately for 4-5 days. For best texture, avoid freezing finished pasta, but the pesto itself can be frozen in a container for up to one month-thaw before tossing with hot pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy 5 Ingredient Pistachio Pesto Pasta (FAQ)
Q: Can I make the pesto in advance?A: Absolutely! Prepare the pesto up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a bit of pasta water when tossing with hot pasta for best creaminess.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?A: Yes, simply swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese to make the recipe fully vegan while keeping it just as creamy and delicious.
Q: Can I use a different nut if I’m allergic to pistachios?A: Yes! Cashews, walnuts, or sunflower seeds all work beautifully and will give you a slightly different, but equally tasty, pesto.
Ready to fall in love with pasta night all over again? This Creamy 5 Ingredient Pistachio Pesto Pasta is certain to become a new family favorite. Give it a try, snap a photo, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating below-I can't wait to hear how it turns out!
Ingredients
- 12 oz dried pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios
- 2 packed cups fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¾ cup reserved pasta cooking water (as needed)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
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2Meanwhile, in a food processor, combine pistachios, basil leaves, Parmesan, and ½ teaspoon salt. Pulse until finely chopped.
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3With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil and 2-3 tablespoons reserved pasta water. Continue blending until the pesto is creamy, pausing to scrape down the sides. If needed, add more water for a silky texture.
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4Return drained pasta to the pot. Add all the pesto, tossing and adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until pasta is evenly coated and sauce is glossy and creamy.
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5Taste and season with more salt and black pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped pistachios.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
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