Pasta with Pistachio Cream

Name: Pasta with Pistachio Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 300g pasta (linguine or fettuccine); Salt (for boiling water); 100g raw pistachios, shelled; 200ml heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Instant Planning

I absolutely love making Pasta with Pistachio Cream! It’s one of those indulgent dishes that never fails to impress. The creamy texture and nutty flavor bring a unique twist to traditional pasta, making it feel both sophisticated and comforting. With just a few ingredients, I can create a delightful meal that feels fancy yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish always garners compliments and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:41:34.509Z

During one of my culinary experiments, I stumbled upon the idea of mixing pistachios into a cream sauce. The result? A delightful creamy pasta that sings with flavor. The key to achieving the perfect creaminess is using high-quality pistachios and a splash of pasta water to bind the sauce. I learned that toasting the nuts before blending enhances their nuttiness, creating a depth of flavor that truly elevates the dish.

Every time I serve this dish, I love watching the eyes of my guests light up when they take the first bite. The balance of creamy texture and crunchy pistachio is pure magic. I also appreciate how versatile this recipe is; I can easily swap in seasonal vegetables to make it even more colorful and nutritious!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, nutty sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly.
Simple ingredients that create a rich and satisfying dish.
Easily customizable with added vegetables or proteins.

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Pasta with Pistachio Cream. Opt for high-quality raw pistachios; they should be bright green and fragrant. Stale or low-quality nuts can impart a dull taste. When it comes to cream, select a heavy cream with at least 36% butterfat content to ensure a luscious and rich texture. This not only enhances the sauce's creaminess but also helps it cling beautifully to the pasta.

Don’t skimp on the garlic, as it provides a fragrant base note that complements the nuttiness of the pistachios. Fresh garlic will yield a brighter flavor than pre-minced varieties. For garnish, fresh basil adds a burst of color and a refreshing aroma that contrasts delightfully with the creamy sauce. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly influences the final outcome of the dish.

Perfecting the Pistachio Cream

When it comes to making the pistachio cream, the key lies in achieving a smooth yet slightly textured consistency. Blend the pistachios first until finely ground, but be cautious not to over-process them into a paste. This step develops flavor while keeping a bit of the pistachio crunch. After adding the rest of the ingredients, pulse just until you have a creamy but not overly processed mixture. You'll want to see tiny flecks of pistachio throughout the sauce for both texture and visual appeal.

If your pistachio cream seems too thick when mixing with the pasta, add the reserved pasta water gradually. This starchy water not only adjusts the consistency but also helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta by creating an emulsion. Aim for a glossy finish that clings to each strand, enhancing the overall indulgence of the dish without making it soupy.

Customizing Your Dish

This Pasta with Pistachio Cream provides a fantastic base that invites customization. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp; they can be tossed in just before serving to warm through without compromising the creamy texture. For a vegetarian option, roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can add both color and nutrition. Simply toss them in the skillet for a few minutes to heat, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.

If you want to give your dish a unique twist, consider adding a hint of citrus zest—such as lemon or orange—during the blending process. This brightens the flavors and balances the richness. Alternatively, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful, spicy kick. Experimenting with additions can transform your dish, making it versatile and exciting each time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking!

For the Pasta

300g pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Pistachio Cream

100g raw pistachios, shelled
200ml heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious pasta dish!

Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Make the Pistachio Cream

In a food processor, blend the pistachios until finely ground. Add the cream, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine and Serve

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked pasta and pistachio cream. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For a touch of acidity, consider squeezing some fresh lemon juice into the sauce before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on a busy weeknight, you can prepare the pistachio cream a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where its flavors will deepend overnight. Just give it a quick stir before combining it with the pasta to restore its creamy consistency. If the cream thickens too much, simply add a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen it up when ready to use.

For the pasta, you can also cook it ahead of time. Cool the drained pasta and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, just warm the pasta gently in a skillet before combining it with the pistachio cream and any desired add-ins.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated dining experience, serve your Pasta with Pistachio Cream on warmed plates to maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce for longer. A finishing touch of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can enhance richness, while a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pistachios adds texture and visual appeal. Pair this dish with a crisp green salad to refresh the palate between bites.

This pasta also complements a variety of beverages. A chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red, such as Pinot Noir, can beautifully offset the rich flavors. If serving this dish as a part of a larger meal, consider serving it alongside a light vegetable or seafood appetizer to create a well-rounded dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, almonds or walnuts can be used as alternatives, but the flavor will vary.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make the dish vegetarian?

It’s already vegetarian, but make sure to use a vegetarian-friendly cream.

→ Can I prepare the pistachio cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pistachio cream in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.