Creamy Basil Pistachio Pesto Delight
Elevate your meals with this vibrant and flavorful Creamy Basil Pistachio Pesto, perfect for drizzling over raw shredded veggies, whole grain pasta, or as a dip for fresh bread. This raw recipe showcases the fresh, aromatic notes of basil, complemented by the buttery texture of pistachios. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it's also packed with healthy fats, making it a nutritious addition to your diet. Enjoy this delightful sauce that bursts with flavor and freshness!
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Basil leaves
2 cups (packed)
Raw pistachios
1/2 cup
Extra virgin olive oil
6 tablespoons
Sea salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Fresh ground black pepper
1 pinch
Instructions
1
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and placing them into a high-speed blender.
2
Blend on medium speed until the ingredients start to combine and become a smooth paste.
3
Scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula to ensure everything is well mixed.
4
Continue blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency; for a chunkier texture, blend for a shorter time.
5
Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional sea salt or black pepper as needed.
6
Once blended to perfection, transfer the pesto to a jar or container, and serve immediately over your favorite raw shredded veggies, or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Basil Pistachio Pesto Delight?
It is a vibrant, raw sauce made with fresh basil and buttery pistachios, perfect for vegetables, pasta, or as a dip.
What are the primary ingredients in this pesto?
The recipe requires 2 cups of packed basil leaves, 1/2 cup raw pistachios, 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this pesto is 100% vegan as it uses no dairy or animal products.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This specific recipe is designed to provide 2 servings.
How long can I store this pesto?
You can store the pesto in a jar or container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I use a food processor instead of a high-speed blender?
Yes, a food processor can be used, though a high-speed blender is recommended for achieving a smoother, creamier texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What is the best way to serve this pesto?
It is delicious drizzled over raw shredded vegetables, mixed into whole grain pasta, or used as a dip for fresh bread.
Do I need to cook any of the ingredients?
No, this is a raw recipe and requires no cooking or heating.
Can I substitute the pistachios with other nuts?
While pistachios provide a unique buttery flavor, you could substitute them with walnuts or pine nuts if needed.
Is there any added sugar in this pesto?
No, this recipe contains no added sugars.
How do I prevent the pesto from turning brown?
Storing it in an airtight container and placing a thin layer of olive oil on top can help preserve its vibrant green color.
Can I freeze this pesto for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the pesto in airtight containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning later.
What type of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor and nutritional profile.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding a clove of raw garlic can enhance the flavor if you prefer a traditional pungent pesto taste.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is packed with healthy fats from pistachios and olive oil, as well as vitamins from fresh basil.
How do I achieve a chunkier texture?
To get a chunkier consistency, simply blend the ingredients for a shorter period of time.
Do I need to toast the pistachios first?
This recipe specifically calls for raw pistachios to keep the dish raw and nutrient-dense.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is essential for the texture and flavor of this pesto; dried basil will not provide the same results.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, due to its high fat and low carbohydrate content, it fits well within a ketogenic diet.
What kind of salt should I use?
The recipe suggests using sea salt to taste for a clean, mineral flavor.
How long does it take to prepare?
It takes only a few minutes to gather the ingredients and blend them into a sauce.
Is it necessary to scrape the blender sides?
Yes, scraping the sides with a spatula ensures all ingredients are evenly incorporated for a smooth paste.
Can I use this as a salad dressing?
Absolutely, it makes a rich and flavorful dressing for fresh green salads.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
No, because it is made entirely of plant-based ingredients, it is cholesterol-free.
Can I add lemon juice to the recipe?
Yes, a splash of lemon juice can add a nice acidity and help maintain the green color of the basil.
Is this a good recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is an extremely simple no-cook recipe that anyone with a blender can make.
How much basil is required?
You will need 2 cups of basil leaves, measured by packing them into the measuring cup.
What is the flavor profile of this pesto?
It is aromatic and fresh from the basil, with a rich, buttery, and slightly sweet undertone from the pistachios.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to accommodate more servings.