Pesto is a vibrant, flavorful sauce that has transcended its Italian roots to become a global favorite. Whether you're tossing it with pasta, spreading it on sandwiches, or mixing it into a creamy dip, pesto is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish. But what exactly is pesto, and how can you make the most of it? Let’s dive in.

What Is Pesto Made Of?

Traditional pesto, also known as Pesto alla Genovese, is a blend of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. But today, there are countless variations, including spinach pesto, kale pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto, and even pistachio pesto. Each variation offers a unique twist on the classic sauce.

Spicy Pesto Burrata Pasta 🍝 Recipe by FoodieRandy
This spicy pesto pasta recipe adds such a nice kick to a classic basil pesto ! Great for a weeknight dinner with no heavy cream :))
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How to Make Pesto Sauce with Fresh Basil: The Classic Recipe

The classic pesto recipe is simple yet packed with bold flavors. All you need are fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Quick Tip: Want a creamy pesto? Add a spoonful of ricotta or cream cheese to the mix for a velvety texture.
Basic Pesto Recipe by Ricardo
One of the great sauces, this recipe was given to me by my mother. #GlobalApron
CookpadRicardo

How to Use Pesto

Wondering what to do with that fresh batch of pesto? Here are some ideas:

Pesto Pasta

Toss pesto with cooked spaghetti or penne for a quick, flavorful meal.

Pasta with Arugula Pesto Recipe by Matmakesmeals
Arugula is in season and it’s good for more than just salads! Turn this sharp, slightly bitter green into a delicious pesto in the time it takes pasta to cook! This makes an incredible lunch (and great pasta salad leftovers!) that takes only 20 minutes. —- The quantities are estimated. Cook from the…
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Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Spread pesto on a grilled chicken sandwich with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.

chicken pesto sandwich Recipe by Paris Kan
Great recipe for chicken pesto sandwich.
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Pesto Salmon

Top salmon fillets with pesto before baking for a burst of fresh herb flavor.

Salmon with Cilantro Pesto Recipe by cookingkid101
Great recipe for Salmon with Cilantro Pesto.
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Pesto Pasta Salad

Mix pesto with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella for a refreshing summer salad.

Pesto pasta salad Recipe by Shari
A delicious pesto pasta salad that is easy to make week 17 of the #MyCookBook challenge
CookpadShari

Pesto Dip

Blend pesto with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a quick, zesty dip.

Pesto dip/sauce Recipe by Liam
Great recipe for Pesto dip/sauce.
CookpadLiam

Is Pesto Sauce Healthy?

Yes, pesto can be a healthy addition to your diet. The main ingredients – basil, olive oil, and nuts – are packed with nutrients, healthy fats, and antioxidants. However, the calorie count can be high due to the oil and cheese, so enjoy it in moderation.

How Long Does Pesto Last in the Fridge?

Fresh pesto can last up to 5–7 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. To keep it vibrant and prevent browning, add a thin layer of olive oil on top.

Sun Dried Tomato Pesto (Food Processor Version) Recipe by SimpleAwesomeCooking
This is a really simple way to make pesto in your food processor. For me, 1 cup of basil leaves is about 1 large fist full.
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Can You Freeze Pesto?

Absolutely! Pesto freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months. Use an ice cube tray to portion it into individual servings – perfect for quick weeknight meals.

How to Make Pesto Last Longer

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container with a layer of olive oil on top.
  • Freeze: Pour pesto into ice cube trays for easy portioning.
  • Vacuum Seal: For extended storage, vacuum seal the pesto to prevent freezer burn.
Spinach and Almond Pesto Recipe by Marcella Sweetly Elvie
Keyword: DETOX. Here’s a quick and healthy sauce to detoxify the body from summer indulgences, a pesto that can be made in minutes and guarantees flavor, lightness, and versatility. Great for dressing a pasta or rice dish, or adding to a grain and legume salad for creaminess, but also excellent for …
CookpadMarcella Sweetly Elvie

Common Pesto Variations:

  • Spinach Pesto: Replace some or all of the basil with fresh spinach for a milder, nutrient-rich sauce.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet twist.
  • Kale Pesto: Swap basil for kale for a heartier, earthy flavor.
  • Almond Pesto: Use almonds instead of pine nuts for a richer, nuttier taste.
  • Vegan Pesto: Skip the cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy, plant-based version.
Kale Pesto Pasta Recipe by bibi
Ooo this is a go-to of mine and its never coming off the list! Love the creaminess, the color, and the flavorrrr. Sometimes i add an avocado to the pesto but thats if im feeling a little fancy (^.^)
Cookpadbibi

What Does Pesto Taste Like?

Classic pesto has a bold, herbaceous flavor with a touch of nuttiness from the pine nuts and a rich, umami taste from the Parmesan. Different variations can add a spicy kick, a touch of sweetness, or a creamier texture, making it a versatile addition to many dishes.

Vegan Basil Pesto Recipe by spiceinthebox
Great recipe for Vegan Basil Pesto.
Cookpadspiceinthebox

Pesto FAQs

Q: How do you make pesto pasta?
A: Cook your preferred pasta, reserve some pasta water, and toss the cooked pasta with pesto. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
Q: Can you make pesto without nuts?
A: Yes! Omit the nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
Q: Is pesto good for you?
A: Yes, pesto contains healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, plus nutrients from fresh herbs. However, it is calorie-dense, so enjoy it in moderation.
Q: Can you freeze pesto?
A: Yes, pesto freezes well. Pour it into ice cube trays, freeze, and transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag for easy portioning.
Focaccia Pesto Chicken Sandwiches Recipe by Lance Wilson
This sandwich is great for picnics and taking on trips. Its a common vacation staple when going to beach. The sandwiches pack well in tightly wrapped plastic, and are moist and flavorful enough to not need extra condiments. The bread for this recipe is foccacia and I also have a recipe for making it…
CookpadLance Wilson

Whether you're spreading it on toast, swirling it through pasta, or using it as a marinade, pesto is a must-have in every kitchen. Get creative and elevate your everyday meals with a burst of fresh, zesty flavor.

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