In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cardamom, and salt. Set aside.
In the stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a large bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, and orange zest until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract and rose water.
Mix in the flour mixture just until combined.
Fold in the chopped pistachios until evenly distributed.
Transfer the dough to a large sheet of plastic wrap and form into a log about 11 inches (28 centimeters) long and 2 inches (5 centimeters) wide.
Wrap tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350˚F (180˚C) and line two baking sheets with parchment.
Remove the chilled dough from the plastic wrap and cut into 1/3 inch (8 millimeter) thick slices.
Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) apart.
Bake in the preheated oven until set and lightly golden around the edges, about 12 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through.
Allow to cool slightly before transferring to wire racks and cooling to room temperature.