Description
Spinach Pistachio Pesto Pasta is a vibrant and fresh Italian-inspired dish perfect for a quick and delicious springtime meal. Combining nutritious spinach and aromatic basil with crunchy pistachios, this easy pasta recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes and makes a flavorful dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb rigatoni or your favorite pasta
For the Spinach Pistachio Pesto:
- 4 cups packed Kroger spinach leaves
- 2 cups packed Simple Truth basil leaves
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup olive oil
For Garnish:
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil and add salt. Slowly add the rigatoni and stir gently to prevent sticking. Return water to a boil and cook the pasta for 8 to 10 minutes until it reaches your desired tenderness.
- Prepare the Pistachio Spinach Pesto: While pasta cooks, combine spinach, basil, shelled pistachios, garlic cloves, fresh lemon juice, shredded Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper in a food processor. Turn on the processor and slowly stream in olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended. Stop and scrape down the sides if needed, then blend again. Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning or add more olive oil if a thinner consistency is preferred.
- Combine Pasta and Pesto: Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large bowl. Add half of the pesto and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water to the pasta, stirring well to coat. Add more pesto and pasta water as necessary to achieve the desired consistency and flavor. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with crushed red pepper flakes and shredded Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the dish warm for a delightful meal.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute rigatoni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
- Reserve pasta water helps to adjust the pesto sauce consistency and adds flavor.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pistachios lightly before blending.
- This pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a squeeze of extra lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors if desired.
