Pistachio

Pistacia vera Nut

Pistachio Nut

At a Glance

  • Category Nut

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond the Shell: Elevating Dishes with Pistachio's Unique Charm"

Definition

A distinctive green-hued nut with a mild, sweet, and earthy flavor, often used roasted, salted, or in desserts.

Common Varieties Kerman, Sirora, Antep (different regions)
Nutritional Highlight High in protein, fiber, healthy fats
Ripeness Indicator Shell splits naturally when ripe

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pistachio are:

Mild sweet earthy slightly resinous

Chef’s Secret

Toast shelled pistachios lightly in a dry pan before chopping and adding to dishes; this intensifies their flavor and brings out their vibrant green color.

Best Substitutes

Almond

different color/texture
Ratio 1:1

Cashew

creamier texture, less distinct flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for unblemished, slightly open shells. Shelled pistachios should be vibrant green. Store in the fridge or freezer.

Recipes Using Pistachio

Easy Preparation Time To Make Easy

Quinoa Spring Summer Salad Gluten Free

This vibrant Quinoa Spring Summer Salad is a refreshing and healthy recipe perfect for showcasing the best of summer produce! Inspired by Alive Magazine's July 2010 issue, this salad bursts with flavor from fresh cucumbers, peas, bell peppers, and red onions. Using red quinoa adds a beautiful pop of color and a slightly nutty flavor (watch it closely to avoid overcooking!). Easily customizable, this recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple vinaigrette (try recipe #431876 for inspiration). Makes a generous serving, perfect as a side dish for 8. For best results, toss with dressing just before serving to maintain the vibrant flavors.

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Desserts Frozen Desserts Course

Aarti's Creamy Pistachio Pops

Indulge in these dreamy Creamy Pistachio Pops, a delightful recipe courtesy of the amazing Aarti Sequeira! These elegant frozen treats are perfect for a hot summer day or any special occasion. The rich, creamy pistachio flavor is unbelievably satisfying, and they're surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping dessert!

See Complete Recipe
Oven Eggs Oven Eggs Dairy

Baklava Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of baklava with these delightful muffins! A quick and easy recipe inspired by Nigella Lawson, these golden-brown treats combine flaky muffin tops with a sweet, nutty filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these baklava muffins are sure to become a new favorite.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Turkish Time To Make Nuts

Baklava Orange Pomegranate Honey Syrup

Experience a symphony of flavors with this exquisite Baklava Orange Pomegranate Honey Syrup recipe! This isn't your grandmother's baklava – we're elevating the classic with a vibrant orange and pomegranate twist. While traditional baklava recipes can be intimidating, this recipe simplifies the process while encouraging your creativity. Feel free to adjust ingredients to your liking; it's all about finding your perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this show-stopping dessert!

See Complete Recipe
Cheesecake Time To Make Desserts Main Ingredient

Baklava Cheesecake

Indulge in this decadent Baklava Cheesecake! This unique twist on a classic combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the crunchy, sweet delight of baklava. Made with coconut sugar for a less sweet, more sophisticated flavor profile, and featuring a buttery crust with a hint of coconut oil for the perfect texture. (Allow 24 hours chilling time before serving.) Prepare to be amazed!

See Complete Recipe
Soups Stews Healthy Low Saturated Fat Low Cholesterol

Berry Soup

This vibrant berry soup is a delightful treat, perfect for a warm summer day or a cozy winter evening. Enjoy it warm for a comforting hug or chilled for a refreshing burst of fruity flavor. This recipe uses fresh berries for maximum taste, but frozen works just as well! Discover the perfect balance of sweet and tart in every spoonful. Prepare to be amazed!

See Complete Recipe
3 Steps Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains 3 Steps Or Less One Dish Meal

Almond And Pistachio Rice With Chicken

Experience a symphony of flavors with this vibrant Almond & Pistachio Chicken Rice recipe, inspired by Ricardo Larrivée! Savory spices blend seamlessly with tender chicken and a delightful crunch from toasted almonds and pistachios. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 50 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Fish Salmon Preparation Fish

Baklava Salmon With Asparagus

Experience a flavor explosion with this unique Baklava Salmon recipe! Crispy panko and pistachios, drizzled with a sweet honey-mustard glaze, create a surprisingly delicious topping for flaky salmon fillets. Roasted asparagus adds a fresh, vibrant counterpoint, making this a stunning and easy one-pan dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or impressing guests!

See Complete Recipe
Hand Formed Cookies Cookies And Brownies Easy Pakistani

Afghani Nan Khatai Cardamom Spiced Cookies Topped With Pistacios

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Afghanistan with these melt-in-your-mouth Nan Khatai cookies! Delicate cardamom spice dances with crunchy pistachios in a buttery, melt-away cookie that's perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe delivers authentic taste and delightful texture – a true taste of Asia.

See Complete Recipe
Kid Friendly Cuisine Healthy 2 Preparation

Banana Pudding Raw Recipe

Whip up this unbelievably simple and delicious raw banana pudding in just 5 minutes! Perfect as a healthy dessert, snack, or even as a base for baby food (just add water!). Creamy avocado blends seamlessly with ripe bananas for a naturally sweet and satisfying treat. Garnish with pistachios for an extra touch of elegance and crunch. This no-bake recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you crave something quick, easy, and healthy.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Time To Make Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

Baklava Tarts

Indulge in these exquisite Baklava Tarts! Flaky, buttery pastry cradles a delicately spiced nut filling, finished with a vibrant citrusy syrup – a taste of authentic baklava in individual, easy-to-make tarts. Perfect for dessert or a special occasion!

See Complete Recipe
Indian Time To Make Fruit Indian

Apple Ka Halwa

Indulge in the warm, comforting sweetness of Apple Ka Halwa! This delightful Indian dessert features tender grated apples simmered with aromatic spices, creamy mava (khoya), and a touch of fragrant rosewater. A perfect blend of healthy and delicious, this easy-to-make halwa is ideal for special occasions or a cozy weeknight treat. Garnished with crunchy nuts, it's a dessert that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more! Find the complete recipe with easy-to-follow instructions below.

See Complete Recipe
Carrots 5 Ingredients Or Less Main Ingredient Easy

Bento Carrot Finger Salad

This 5-minute Carrot Finger Salad is the perfect healthy and adorable addition to your bento box! Easy enough for even a beginner cook, this vibrant and refreshing salad is packed with flavor and crunch. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick and healthy snack.

See Complete Recipe
Desserts Main Ingredient Salads Fruit

A Different Kind Of Pistachio Ambrosia

Elevate your holiday dessert game with this unique twist on classic ambrosia! Bursting with fresh fruit, creamy pudding, and a delightful crunch of pistachios, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. Easy to make ahead, it's the perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Course 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion Desserts

Basboosa Suji Cake Arabic Semolina Cake

Indulge in this extraordinary Basboosa Suji Cake, a delightful fusion of flavors and textures! Created by perfecting various recipes, this isn't your average semolina cake; it's delicately moist, never grainy, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for kids' parties, adult gatherings, religious celebrations, or simply a sweet treat anytime. This easy and quick recipe will earn you rave reviews – guaranteed! Make it a day ahead to impress even more. Search no further for the ultimate sweet dessert – this is it!

See Complete Recipe
Low Fat Low Calorie Low Protein 4 Hours Or Less

Another Pilaf

This aromatic Another Pilaf recipe is a delightful blend of fluffy rice, fragrant spices, and sweet-tart cranberries and raisins. Perfect as a side dish with pork or chicken, or enjoyed on its own with fresh fruit and crusty bread. The combination of textures and flavors will tantalize your taste buds! Get ready for a culinary adventure in just 65 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Course Vegetarian Time To Make Vegetables

Belgian Endive Orange And Date Salad

A stunning and surprisingly easy salad recipe inspired by NPR, with a unique Middle Eastern twist! This vibrant dish features crisp Belgian endive (cone-shaped variety), juicy oranges, sweet Medjool dates, and crunchy pistachios, all tossed in a fragrant rosewater-honey dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, elegant appetizer, or a sophisticated side dish. Easily adaptable for vegans by substituting agave for honey. Get ready to impress your guests with this artistic and flavorful creation!

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less Course Preparation Time To Make

Arugula Pear And Goat Cheese Salad With Pomegranate Vinaigrette

This stunning holiday salad is a symphony of flavors and textures! Sweet pears, peppery arugula, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy pistachios are perfectly balanced by a vibrant pomegranate vinaigrette. Inspired by Persian cuisine, this easy-to-make salad boasts sweet, salty, tart, crunchy, and spicy notes in every bite. The pomegranate molasses adds a unique depth, mellowing the vinaigrette's acidity while retaining its delicious tang. A showstopper for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, this recipe is a must-try! #holidayrecipe #saladrecipe #pomegranatesalad #goatcheesesalad #thanksgivingrecipe

See Complete Recipe