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Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata Cheese

Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata Cheese


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan

Description

Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Burrata Cheese (plant-based) is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining the nutty richness of toasted pistachios with fresh basil and a smooth, creamy burrata cheese alternative. This simple yet elegant pasta recipe boasts a luscious pesto that coats every strand of spaghetti, topped with indulgent dollops of plant-based burrata, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Its colorful presentation and versatile options ensure satisfaction for every palate.


Ingredients

Scale

Pesto Ingredients

  • 1 cup shelled pistachios, lightly toasted
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup vegetarian Parmesan cheese (plant-based)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (natural), plus more as needed

Pasta Ingredients

  • 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta (can use gluten-free pasta)
  • Salt, to taste (for pasta water)

Topping and Garnish

  • 8 oz burrata cheese (plant-based)
  • Crushed pistachios (optional)
  • Extra basil leaves (for garnish)
  • Olive oil (natural), for drizzling
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pistachio Pesto: Toast pistachios in a dry pan over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes. In a food processor, combine toasted pistachios, fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, vegetarian Parmesan cheese (plant-based), lemon juice (natural), salt, and pepper. Pulse while slowly drizzling in olive oil (natural) until the mixture reaches a creamy yet slightly chunky consistency with a rich and vibrant texture.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti or your preferred pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
  3. Combine Pasta and Pesto: Toss the hot pasta with a generous amount of pistachio pesto. Add reserved pasta water gradually, stirring continuously, until the pesto coats the pasta in a luscious, creamy layer. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice (natural) if needed to brighten flavors.
  4. Plate and Add Burrata Cheese: Transfer the pesto-coated pasta to serving plates or a large dish. Gently tear or place dollops of burrata cheese (plant-based) on top, allowing it to slowly melt into the warm pasta and enhance creaminess.

Notes

  • Toast pistachios lightly to preserve their natural sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Use fresh, healthy basil leaves for optimal flavor and freshness.
  • Reserve some pasta water to help emulsify pesto with pasta, creating a silky sauce rather than a dry coating.
  • Adjust pesto consistency by adding more olive oil (natural) or reserved pasta water gradually to avoid overly oily or thick sauce.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy burrata cheese (plant-based) at its freshest and creamiest.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling and Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pistachio pesto pasta, plant-based burrata, creamy pasta, vegan pesto, gluten-free pasta, easy elegant dinner