Recipes

24 Pesto Recipes That Will Rock Your Taste Buds!

24 Best Pesto Recipes

Welcome to our blog, where we delve into the world of mouthwatering pesto recipes! Pesto, with its vibrant green hue and robust flavors, has become a beloved staple in kitchens around the globe.

Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just starting your culinary journey, there's no denying the versatility and sheer deliciousness of this classic Italian sauce. In this post, we'll explore some of the best pesto recipes that will elevate your meals to new heights. So grab your mortar and pestle, and let's dive into the wonderful world of pesto!

1. Basil Walnut Pesto

Basil Walnut Pesto

Basil Walnut Pesto is a quick and easy recipe that doesn't require expensive pine nuts. With fresh basil, parsley, Parmesan cheese, walnuts, and garlic, this pesto is packed with flavor. It can be used to dress pasta, as a rub for roasted chicken, or even spread on bread for a delicious snack.

The recipe also offers variations like adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substituting kale for parsley. Overall, Basil Walnut Pesto is a versatile and tasty option for pesto lovers.

2. Basil Pesto

Basil Pesto

Basil Pesto is a classic Italian sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, nuts, cheese, and olive oil. It is versatile and can be used as a pasta sauce, dipping sauce, or marinade. The recipe suggests using pine nuts, but other nuts like walnuts or almonds can be used as well.

Parmesan cheese is recommended, but Romano or Grana Padano can also be used. This pesto can be easily made in a food processor or blender. It can be frozen for future use and adds a burst of flavor to various dishes.

3. Pesto

Pesto

This classic basil pesto recipe combines fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. It is a quick and easy sauce to make, with a vibrant and flavorful taste.

Pesto can be used in various ways, such as a pasta sauce, dip, salad dressing, or topping for pizza and crostini. It can also be stored for later use. Overall, this pesto recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any dish.

4. Easy Vegan Pesto

Easy Vegan Pesto

The Easy Vegan Pesto recipe is a quick and flavorful alternative to traditional pesto. Made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts (or walnuts), and nutritional yeast, this dairy-free version still delivers a creamy and cheesy taste.

The addition of lemon juice adds a zesty kick, while extra virgin olive oil (or vegetable broth/water) gives it a smooth consistency. This versatile pesto can be used in various dishes, from pasta and salads to sauces and pizza. It's easy to make and freezes well for future use. Overall, a delicious and healthy vegan option for pesto lovers.

5. Classic Basil Pesto

Classic Basil Pesto

Classic Basil Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful sauce made with fresh basil, parsley, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. It's a versatile sauce that can be used on pasta, sandwiches, pizzas, and more. The combination of herby sweetness, creaminess, sharpness, and richness creates a perfectly balanced pesto.

The recipe is quick and easy, ready in just 15 minutes. It's a great make-ahead sauce that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Overall, Classic Basil Pesto is a must-try for pesto lovers looking for a delicious and homemade sauce.

6. Homemade Basil Pesto

Homemade Basil Pesto

Homemade Basil Pesto is a classic, simple, and flavorful recipe that uses fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. It comes together quickly in a food processor or blender and can be used as a dip, sauce, or spread.

The pesto is versatile and pairs well with various dishes, instantly elevating their flavors. Overall, this homemade basil pesto is a delicious and easy way to add a burst of freshness to any savory dish.

7. Creamy Pesto Pasta

Creamy Pesto Pasta

Creamy Pesto Pasta is a simple and delicious recipe that uses fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, butter, and heavy cream to create a creamy and flavorful pesto sauce. The addition of crushed red pepper flakes adds a hint of spice, while the reserved pasta water helps to create a silky texture.

This recipe can be easily customized by adding additional cheese or adjusting the creaminess to suit personal preferences. Overall, Creamy Pesto Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners.

8. Classic Pesto

Classic Pesto

Classic Pesto is a flavorful and versatile recipe made with fresh basil, garlic, nuts, olive oil, and cheese. It is quick and easy to make, adding a burst of flavor to various dishes such as pizza, sandwiches, pasta, and salads.

The recipe offers substitutions for different ingredients, making it adaptable to personal preferences. Pesto can also be frozen for future use. Overall, Classic Pesto is a must-try recipe for pesto lovers looking for a classic and delicious option.

9. Pesto Sauce

Pesto Sauce

This pesto sauce recipe is incredibly easy and quick to make, taking only 5 minutes. It yields about 1 cup of creamy pesto, perfect for 1 pound of pasta. The recipe can be easily doubled for larger portions.

It allows for substitutions of various herbs and nuts, making it versatile and customizable. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 6 months. Overall, this pesto sauce is a delicious and convenient option for any pesto lover.

10. Easy Homemade Pesto

Easy Homemade Pesto

Easy Homemade Pesto is a versatile and flavorful sauce that will elevate any dish. With just a handful of ingredients, including toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic, this pesto is both toasty and warm, bursting with herby freshness and a tangy garlic kick.

It can be made with various greens and nuts, allowing for customization. The recipe yields about 1 1/2 cups of pesto, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Overall, this Easy Homemade Pesto is a must-try for pesto lovers looking for a simple and delicious homemade version.

11. Spinach and Basil Pesto

Spinach And Basil Pesto

Spinach and Basil Pesto is a quick and easy recipe that is perfect for those with nut allergies. Made with fresh basil, spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil, this pesto is versatile and pairs well with pasta, sandwiches, chicken, and more.

The addition of spinach adds a healthy twist, and the recipe can be easily adjusted to achieve the desired consistency. Overall, this nut-free pesto is a flavorful and convenient option for pesto lovers.

12. Classic Italian Basil Pesto (Pesto alla Genovese)

Classic Italian Basil Pesto (Pesto Alla Genovese)

Classic Italian Basil Pesto (Pesto alla Genovese) is a must-try recipe for pesto lovers. Made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, salt, olive oil, and a mix of Pecorino and Parmesan cheese, this traditional Genovese pesto is bursting with flavor.

The recipe emphasizes the importance of ingredient selection and method, resulting in a bright green pesto that lasts up to a week in the fridge. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a spread, this classic basil pesto is a true Italian delight.

13. Fresh Basil Pesto

Fresh Basil Pesto

Fresh Basil Pesto is a vibrant green sauce made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and extra-virgin olive oil. It is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as pasta, chicken, pizza, and salads.

The recipe allows for variations, such as using different nuts or cheeses, to suit individual preferences. Freezing is also an option for long-term storage. Overall, Fresh Basil Pesto adds a delicious punch of flavor to any dish it is used in.

14. Vegan Basil Pesto

Vegan Basil Pesto

Vegan Basil Pesto is a simple and flavorful homemade pesto recipe that uses only 5 ingredients. It is dairy-free and can be made easily in a food processor.

The combination of fresh basil, walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil creates a zingy and nutty pesto that can be used in various dishes. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and adds a burst of flavor to pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and more.

15. Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce

Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce

This Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce is a game-changer. Made with fresh ingredients, it takes just 5 minutes to prepare. The combination of basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, freshly grated parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, lemon juice, and high-quality olive oil creates a flavorful and versatile sauce.

Whether you use it for pasta, pizza, sandwiches, or any dish that needs a touch of basil, this homemade pesto will elevate your meals to a whole new level. Say goodbye to store-bought jars, because once you try this recipe, you'll never go back.

16. Fresh Pesto Pasta with Peas

Fresh Pesto Pasta With Peas

Fresh Pesto Pasta with Peas is a simple and delicious recipe that can be made in just 15 minutes. The combination of homemade or store-bought pesto, pasta, and peas creates a flavorful and satisfying dish.

It can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak. The recipe is versatile and can be served hot, room temperature, or cold, making it perfect for meal prepping or potlucks. Overall, Fresh Pesto Pasta with Peas is a quick and tasty option for pesto lovers.

17. Mint Pesto

Mint Pesto

Mint Pesto is a refreshing twist on the classic basil pesto recipe. Made with slivered almonds, fresh basil and mint, garlic, parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon zest and juice, this pesto is bursting with flavor.

It can be used as a spread, tossed with pasta, or added to pizza for a unique and delicious taste. The recipe is simple and can be made in a food processor. Overall, Mint Pesto is a versatile and flavorful condiment that is worth trying.

18. Arugula Basil Pesto

Arugula Basil Pesto

Arugula Basil Pesto is a vibrant and peppery pesto recipe that combines the flavors of arugula, basil, pecans, lemon juice, olive oil, and parmesan cheese. It is a versatile sauce that can be used on pasta, vegetables, or as a sandwich spread.

The combination of fresh ingredients and toasty pecans adds depth and richness to the pesto. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, Arugula Basil Pesto is a must-try for pesto lovers.

19. Spinach Basil Pesto Pasta

Spinach Basil Pesto Pasta

Spinach Basil Pesto Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that combines the freshness of spinach and basil with the richness of Parmigiano Reggiano. The pesto is made by blending spinach, basil, walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.

The pasta is cooked al dente and then mixed with the pesto, cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and Parmigiano Reggiano. The result is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of garlic bread.

20. Kale Pesto

Kale Pesto

Kale Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful alternative to traditional basil pesto. Made with fresh kale, garlic, pepitas, Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option), lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper, this pesto is rich, nutty, and slightly peppery in taste.

It is quick and easy to make, taking only 5 minutes to prepare. The versatility of this pesto allows for various uses, such as tossing it with pasta, spooning it over eggs or a frittata, swirling it into mac and cheese, or slathering it on sandwiches. The options are endless!

21. Pesto Rosso

Pesto Rosso

Pesto Rosso is a delicious Italian condiment made with sun-dried tomatoes, roasted almonds, and extra virgin olive oil. It adds a pop of flavor and beautiful color to any dish.

This versatile pesto can be used to dress up pasta, top sandwiches, flavor meats, and much more. It's easy to make and requires no cooking. A must-try for pesto lovers!

22. Avocado Basil Pesto Pasta Sauce

Avocado Basil Pesto Pasta Sauce

Avocado Basil Pesto Pasta Sauce is a creamy and light alternative to classic pesto. The avocado replaces the oil, resulting in a lower calorie sauce that is still packed with flavor.

This versatile sauce pairs well with various pasta shapes and can be adjusted to personal preferences. The addition of toasted pine nuts adds a delightful nuttiness. Serve immediately for the best taste. Not suitable for freezing.

23. Basil Pesto Sauce

Basil Pesto Sauce

Basil Pesto Sauce is a classic Italian sauce that combines fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of salt. This flavorful sauce is versatile and can be used in various dishes such as pasta, dips, dressings, and even as a marinade for meats. It is quick and easy to make, especially with the help of a food processor.

The key to achieving the best flavor is using fresh ingredients, particularly vibrant green and fragrant basil leaves. Be careful not to overmix the sauce, as it should have a textured consistency. Overall, Basil Pesto Sauce is a delicious and essential addition to any kitchen.

24. Broccoli Pesto

Broccoli Pesto

Broccoli Pesto is a vibrant and easy-to-make alternative to traditional pesto. Made without nuts, the broccoli adds a lighter and brighter flavor to the sauce.

With just a handful of ingredients, this pesto comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Toss it with pasta and garnish with pine nuts, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.