Sparks from the Kitchen

Years ago I remember seeing Alton Brown make a pistachio pesto and it sounded so delicious! I love pistachios and have always kept that in the back of my mind.

So recently I made some. Wow is it delicious!!  You really can taste the pistachios but they don’t over-power the basil or parmesan (and if you’re a regular reader you know how I love my parmesan.  Hell, if this is the first time you’re ever reading this let it be known-I love parmesan) I made quite a bit and froze 2 tbsp amounts wrapped in plastic for use whenever I want it. Enjoy!!

(sorry no photo of the plain pesto–I forgot to take one when I made it but this is a photo of it mixed into greek yogurt/cream cheese for a dipping sauce. you get the idea)

Pistachio Pesto

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basil leaves, stems removed, washed, patted dry
• 1 large garlic clove
• 1/3-1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan
• 1/4 cup shelled unsalted pistachios
• 2/3 -1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• pinch of kosher salt

Instructions:

1. Place the basil, garlic, parmesan and pistachios into the bowl of a food processor and pulse until chopped and even
2. While the machine is running pour in the olive oil
3. When desired consistancy is reached add the salt and pulse to combine
4. Serve or freeze or refrigerate