Pistachios are one of the best nuts out there. They are excellent for baking and cooking. From savory dishes to desserts, these delicious green nuts can be used in many ways in your cuisine of choice. Apart from giving a distinct green color to your dishes, pistachios have this crunch and saltiness that elevates the flavor of everything. With today being National Pistachio Day, try your hand at these pistachio recipes. We promise you will not be disappointed!
1. Pistachio Cake
A pistachio cake will be handy if you want to bake a unique cake for your kid’s birthday party or if your parents are not a big fan of overly sweet cakes. They are light, fluffy, and creamy, a texture that will be loved by kids and adults alike. This pistachio recipe is made with yellow cake mix, instant pistachio pudding, and toasted nuts to get that distinct green color. You can serve the cake without frosting, but one made with whipped cream, pudding, and milk elevates the cake to the next level.
2. Pistachio Ice Cream
Make pistachio ice cream for your little ones if they are bored with the regular vanilla or chocolate flavors. The ice cream is super simple to make and doesn’t contain eggs (so all the kiddos with egg allergies can enjoy it safely). This recipe requires only milk, cream, honey, sugar, vanilla, salt, and pistachios. Your kids will love the sweet and nutty flavor of the ice cream.
3. Pistachio Cheese Dip
Up your cheesy dip game with pistachio cheese dip. Instead of your regular dip, serve this crunchy and creamy delicacy to your family and friends. It goes well with crackers or pita chips and comes together in a matter of minutes. You can also enjoy this dip with your veggie sticks if you want to eat healthy this year.
4. Pistachio Falafel
Whether it be kids or adults, everybody loves falafel. So, next time you make this crunchy goodness, add some pistachios to the mix and see how it transforms the texture and adds layers to the flavor. Toss them in the salad, serve them with wraps, or have them as they are with hummus. With every bite, they will provide a burst of flavor.
5. Pork, Apricot and Pistachio Sausage
The combination might seem a bit off, but it tastes divine when they all come together in this form. This savory dish is made with a mix of ground pork, dried fruit, and nuts, which is then wrapped around flavorful Merguez sausages for a meat-loaded dish. Serve them at your party or holiday dinner to impress everyone.
6. Cannoli
Next time you make cannoli, dunk them in chopped pistachios and sprinkle some icing sugar on top to make this classic Italian treat. You will be surprised how pistachios change the texture and flavor of this dish. Cannoli with pistachios is a must-have!
7. Pistachio-Crusted Rack of Lamb
If you want to surprise your partner with a fancy dish at home, try this pistachio-crusted rack of lamb recipe. It might sound complicated, but it’s super easy to make in the comfort of your home. Take a rack of lamb and slather it with Dijon mustard and herbs de Provence (an aromatic mixture of dried Provençal herbs and spices). Then, add a coating of breadcrumbs and pistachio nuts. Your partner will be surprised to see this 5-star restaurant-worthy dish on your dinner table.
8. Gunpowder Gimlet Cocktail
Cocktail with pistachios? Why not! Although this cocktail recipe requires some preparation, it is worth all the effort once you take that first sip. First, you must make pistachio honey syrup by letting salted pistachios steep in honey and water to create a delicious salty syrup. Then, pair it with the green tea gin and lemon to make a gunpowder gimlet. It is a unique drink that your guests will remember forever.
You can also try making Baklava, Crunchy Pistachio Nut Fudge, Pear and Pistachio Galette, and Cardamom Pistachio Shortbread Cookies. As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from. Which one will you pick? Do let us know in the comment section below!