Basil pesto is a beloved Italian sauce that is made from fresh basil leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts and olive oil. It is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. Pesto is not only easy to make but also healthy and delicious.
However, you may be wondering what goes with basil pesto? It is true that pesto sauce is delicious on its own, but it can be even more versatile if you know how to pair it with other ingredients. In this article, we will explore some of the best pairs for basil pesto that will make your dish even more delicious.
A Brief Overview of Basil Pesto – Ingredients and Preparation
Basil Pesto is a versatile and flavorful sauce that originates from Italy. It is made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The ingredients are blended together, creating a bright green sauce that is both fragrant and tangy. Basil Pesto is typically served with pasta, but it can also be used as a condiment or a spread.
To prepare Basil Pesto, you will need a food processor or blender. Begin by washing and drying the basil leaves. Add the basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese to the food processor and pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. While the processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Basil Pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient addition to any meal.
Classic Pairings with Basil Pesto – Putting Together the Perfect Pair
When it comes to classic pairings with basil pesto, there are several tried and tested combinations that never fail to impress the taste buds. One of the most popular pairings is with pasta, which makes for a simple yet delicious meal. The fresh, herbaceous flavor of the pesto adds depth to the pasta, while the pasta provides a perfect base for soaking up all that delicious sauce. You can use any type of pasta, but spaghetti, linguine or fusilli work particularly well with pesto.
Another classic pairing is with tomatoes and mozzarella, in the form of a Caprese salad. The pesto adds a new dimension to the salad, lifting the flavors of the tomato and mozzarella and creating a perfect balance of flavors. You can also spread basil pesto onto fresh bread, topped with slices of juicy tomato and mozzarella, to create the perfect sandwich. Whether you go for classic pasta dishes or simple snacks, pesto is a versatile sauce that can complement so many different flavors and dishes, making it a perfect ingredient to have in your kitchen.
Beyond Pasta – Alternative Dishes to Serve with Basil Pesto
Basil pesto is a versatile sauce that can go beyond being a simple pasta dressing. It can add an exciting punch of flavor to an array of dishes, making it a popular choice for many cookouts and dinner parties. Here are some alternative dishes that can be served with basil pesto:
Firstly, basil pesto can be used as a marinade for meat and seafood. For example, marinating chicken or salmon in pesto will enhance the flavors of the dish while adding a new dimension. Secondly, basil pesto can be used as a base for pizza instead of traditional tomato sauce. Topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and pine nuts, the pizza has layers of flavors and textures. Lastly, using basil pesto as a dressing for a salad makes for a lighter, more refreshing meal. It pairs well with greens such as arugula, spinach, and kale and can be served with fresh vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. With these alternative dishes, basil pesto can be enjoyed in a number of ways beyond pasta.
Vegetarian Options for Basil Pesto Pairings
Basil pesto is a versatile sauce that can be paired with a variety of vegetarian options. The classic pairing is with pasta, but there are many other delicious options to explore. One popular vegetarian option is to use pesto as a spread for sandwiches. It can be used on a grilled vegetable sandwich or used as a spread on a caprese sandwich made with mozzarella cheese, tomato, and fresh basil leaves. It’s also an excellent ingredient to add to a vegetable wrap or grain bowl.
Another favorite vegetarian option for basil pesto pairings is to use the sauce as a dip for vegetables. It makes for a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer. Try pairing it with raw veggies such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. For a more substantial snack, you can add chunks of bread or crackers to the mix. The earthy flavors of the pesto pair perfectly with the fresh veggies, making it a great option for any vegetarian meal.
Wine Pairings with Basil Pesto – Tips from Sommeliers
Pairing wine with food can enhance the dining experience and bring out the flavors of both. Basil pesto, a versatile sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, can be paired with a variety of wines. The best rule to remember when pairing wine with pesto is to consider the ingredients used in the sauce. For example, basil creates a bright, herbaceous flavor, while Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor.
Sommeliers suggest pairing basil pesto with light-bodied white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. These wines have citrus and tropical fruit flavors that complement the pesto’s herbaceousness. Another option is to pair pesto with light to medium-bodied red wines, such as Chianti or Beaujolais. These wines have fruity and earthy flavors that stand up to the bold flavors of the pesto. Whatever wine you choose, make sure to taste it with a small amount of pesto before serving it with the complete meal to ensure that the flavors complement each other.
Creative Basil Pesto Pairings – Surprising but Delicious
If you’re looking to take your basil pesto game to the next level, it’s time to get creative with your pairings. While the classic combination of pasta and pesto is always delicious, there are plenty of surprising but equally tasty options available.
One option is to use basil pesto as a marinade or sauce for grilled meats like chicken, fish, or steak. The bold flavor of the pesto perfectly complements the charred and juicy meat, creating a savory and satisfying dish. Another creative pairing is to mix basil pesto into mashed potatoes, risotto, or even scrambled eggs for a burst of herbaceous flavor. Top it off with some shaved Parmesan cheese, and you have a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. These unconventional pairings will surely impress your taste buds and your guests.
Tips for Storing and Serving Basil Pesto – Getting the Most Flavour out of Your Sauce.
Storing basil pesto can be a bit tricky, as it needs to be kept away from air, light, and heat. To keep your pesto tasting fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil to help preserve its green color. For longer storage, the pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays and then transferred to a container or bag for future use.
When it comes to serving basil pesto, be sure to bring it to room temperature before using. This will allow the sauce to loosen up and make it easier to toss with pasta or spread on sandwiches. To intensify the flavor even more, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. Pesto also works well as a dip for vegetables or a topping for pizza, making it a versatile sauce that can be used in many different ways.
Final Words
Basil pesto is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and depth. From pasta to sandwiches, from salads to soups, basil pesto can transform any dish from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few spoonfuls. However, it’s important to remember that the possibilities are endless with this delicious ingredient, and experimenting with different pairings and combinations can lead to some truly amazing culinary creations. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, exploring the many ways to use basil pesto is a fun and delicious adventure that’s definitely worth trying.
In conclusion, basil pesto is a wonderful ingredient that can truly elevate any dish. Whether you’re using it as a simple pasta sauce or incorporating it into more complex preparations, basil pesto adds a bright, fresh flavor that enhances the overall taste of any meal. By experimenting with different pairings and combinations, you can discover new and exciting ways to use this delicious ingredient and take your cooking skills to the next level. So next time you’re looking for inspiration in the kitchen, consider turning to basil pesto for a quick and easy way to add flavor and depth to your dishes.