Farfalle with Pistachio Cream Sauce

I was looking for something to make for dinner on St. Patrick's Day that was green, but naturally green.  This is what I ended up making and it was quick, easy, creamy and delicious.

Farfalle with Pistachio Cream Sauce

8 ounces farfalle pasta

1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped

1/4 cup ground pistachios (grind in a blender or food processor)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2-3/4 cup heavy cream (according to taste)

Crushed red pepper

Salt

Fresh ground black pepper

Bring a pot of salted water to boil.  In the meantime, chop onion and grind the pistachios until the pieces are very small, but not completely uniform.  Add pasta to water and boil according to package directions.

While pasta is cooking, begin sauce: heat olive oil in a medium sauté pan, add onion and cook until translucent, but not browned.  Add pistachios and enough oil to moisten them (if needed).  It should be a paste-like consistency.  Cook, stirring, over medium heat for about one minute (do not let the pistachios take on any color).  Add cream, stir until heated through, remove from heat.  Add a pinch of crushed red pepper, black pepper and plenty of salt to taste.

When pasta is al dente, drain well then add to the sauté pan with the sauce.  Toss well to coat and serve immediately with lots of fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano.

This recipe comes from Pinch My Salt