Summer Recipes with Pistachios and Wine Pairings

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light, and flavorful dishes, especially those that incorporate the unique taste of pistachios. At Heart of the Desert, we believe that pairing these delicious pistachio dishes with the right wine can elevate your culinary experience to a whole new level. Here, we share a collection of refreshing summer recipes featuring our premium pistachios, each paired with a suitable wine from our collection.

Pistachio-Crusted Salmon

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets

1 cup Heart of the Desert pistachios, finely chopped

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a bowl, combine the chopped pistachios, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Press the pistachio mixture onto the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring an even coating.

Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

Serve with lemon wedges.

Wine Pairing:
Heart of the Desert White Zinfandel– The crisp and fruity notes of our White Zinfandel complement the rich, nutty crust of the salmon, creating a harmonious balance.  Serve White Zinfandel chilled.

Pistachio Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

1 pound pasta (your choice)

2 cups fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup Heart of the Desert pistachios

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 garlic cloves

1/2 cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pistachios, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.

With the processor running, gradually add the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss the cooked pasta with the pistachio pesto until well coated.

Garnish with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.

Wine Pairing:

Heart of the Desert Chardonnay – The crisp and light nature of our Chardonnay cuts through the rich, creamy pesto, enhancing the fresh flavors of the dish.  Serve Chardonnay chilled.

Summer Salad with Pistachios

Recipe:

Ingredients:

4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)

1 cup strawberries, sliced

1/2 cup Heart of the Desert pistachios

1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese

1 avocado, sliced

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, strawberries, pistachios, goat cheese, avocado, and red onion.

Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately.

Wine Pairing:
Heart of the Desert Reisling – The rich and fruity notes of our lightly sweet Reisling enhance the sweet and savory elements of the salad, creating a refreshing summer pairing.  Serve Reisling chilled.

These summer recipes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for warm-weather dining. By pairing each dish with a complementary wine from Heart of the Desert, you can create an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the flavors of the season.

We hope you enjoy these recipes and wine pairings as much as we do! Cheers to a delicious and refreshing summer.

Heart of the Desert is a working pistachio ranch and vineyard with three retail establishments in New Mexico. They are best known for their farm-fresh pistachios and Award-Winning New Mexico wines. Each store offers wine and pistachio tastings. They offer worldwide shipping and produce attractive gourmet baskets that make great corporate and family gifts. The main store, on the ranch in Alamogordo, offers farm tours that showcase how pistachios are grown and processed, as well as a stunning Tuscany-themed patio that overlooks the groves and is available for weddings, private parties, or enjoying a relaxing glass of wine.