Why You’ll Love Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe

This recipe elevates the classic pesto pasta by swapping out pine nuts for pistachios, which add a buttery, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and easy to customize with your favorite pasta shapes or extra vegetables. Best of all, the fresh homemade pesto makes the dish taste restaurant-worthy — without leaving your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne)
shrimp, peeled and deveined
shelled, unsalted pistachios
fresh basil leaves
garlic cloves
grated Parmesan cheese
extra-virgin olive oil
salt
black pepper
reserved pasta water
lemon juice (optional)
red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a food processor, combine pistachios, basil, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth, creamy pesto. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl or pot, toss the hot pasta with the pistachio pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to coat the pasta evenly.
Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and add lemon juice if using.
Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Swap proteins: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or salmon.
Add vegetables: Stir in sautéed spinach, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or roasted asparagus.
Make it dairy-free: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Spice it up: Add extra garlic or red pepper flakes for a bolder kick.
Try different pasta: Use gluten-free, whole wheat, or even chickpea pasta for different dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Make-ahead: The pistachio pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge with a thin layer of olive oil on top. It can also be frozen (without cheese) for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, pistachio pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Linguine and spaghetti are excellent for clinging to the creamy pesto sauce, but penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well too.

How do I toast the pistachios?

Toast pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly golden.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can use a blender instead. Just be sure to stop and scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even blend.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the shrimp or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, white beans, or grilled vegetables.

How do I keep the pesto from turning brown?

Store the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil on top and press plastic wrap directly against the surface to help prevent oxidation.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What’s a good substitute for Parmesan?

Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative. You could also try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

What sides go well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or even a light soup pair beautifully with this dish.

Conclusion

Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp is a deliciously simple yet elegant recipe that delivers bold, fresh flavor in every bite. With its nutty homemade pesto, succulent shrimp, and silky pasta, it’s a meal you’ll turn to time and again — whether you’re impressing dinner guests or just treating yourself to something special.