Pesto is a flavorful, versatile sauce that can add a burst of flavor to any dish – but what exactly do you do with it? If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a jar of pesto, wondering how to use it beyond just tossing it with pasta, you’re not alone. This article will provide you with some creative and delicious ways to use pesto in your cooking.
Whether you’re looking for a quick way to jazz up your weeknight meals or trying to impress your dinner guests, pesto can be a great tool to have in your culinary arsenal. From using it as a marinade for grilled chicken, to stirring it into soups and stews for added depth of flavor, there’s no shortage of ways to incorporate pesto into your cooking. So let’s get started and explore some new and exciting ways to put that jar of pesto to good use!
Pesto Pairings: What Foods Compliment Pesto Best?
Pesto, a traditional Italian sauce made with basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil, is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. One of the easiest ways to enjoy pesto is by pairing it with pasta. Simply toss cooked pasta with a few tablespoons of pesto, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes. Pesto also pairs well with grilled vegetables, chicken, and seafood, adding a burst of herby flavor to your favorite dishes.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try using pesto as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for crackers and vegetables. It can also be used as a base for homemade pizza, or as a sauce for roasted potatoes or vegetables. If you’re looking for a simple and delicious appetizer, try spreading pesto on crostini and topping with fresh mozzarella or roasted tomatoes. With so many options, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this tasty condiment.
The Ultimate Guide to Making Pesto at Home
Making your own pesto at home is incredibly easy and satisfying. Not only does homemade pesto taste incredibly fresh and vibrant, but it can also be tailored to your particular tastes and dietary requirements. The traditional recipe for pesto involves basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil, but other greens like arugula or kale and nuts like almonds or walnuts can also be used to create a unique and delicious flavor.
To make pesto, simply combine all of your ingredients in a food processor and pulse until a paste forms. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the processor as needed and add more olive oil if the pesto is too thick. Once you’ve made your pesto, you can enjoy it in a variety of ways – top pasta dishes, mix into soups, spread on sandwiches or crostini, or even use as a marinade for meats and fish. Pesto has a multitude of uses and making it at home is an easy and rewarding endeavor.
Healthy Alternatives: Ways to Incorporate Pesto into Your Low-Carb Meal
Pesto is a versatile and delicious sauce to add to your low-carb meal. It is packed with nutrients and healthy fats, making it a perfect addition to your diet. Here are a few healthy alternative ways to incorporate pesto into your low-carb meal:
1. Pesto Zucchini Noodles – Swap out your traditional pasta with zucchini noodles and top it with a generous amount of pesto for a low-carb, high-nutrient meal. This is a perfect option for a light and refreshing summer meal.
2. Pesto Roasted Vegetables – Roasted vegetables are a tasty and healthy side dish, and when combined with pesto, they become absolutely delicious. Toss your favorite low-carb vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cherry tomatoes in pesto before roasting them for a burst of flavor.
These are just a few healthy alternatives to incorporate pesto into your low-carb meal. It’s a delicious, easy way to add flavor and nutrients to your diet while keeping your carb intake low.
Beyond Pasta: Creative Uses for Pesto in Your Cooking
Pesto is a versatile sauce that can add a burst of flavor to a wide range of dishes beyond just pasta. For example, it can be used as a marinade for meats such as chicken or fish, or as a topping for grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes. Adding a dollop of pesto to a soup or stew can also give it a bright, herbaceous kick.
Pesto can even be incorporated into breakfast dishes, such as a pesto scrambled egg or a pesto avocado toast. It can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables, crackers, or bread. With a little creativity, there are endless possibilities for using pesto in your cooking to elevate and enhance your meals.
How to Properly Store Pesto and Keep it Fresh
Pesto is a delicious and versatile sauce that can be used to enhance the flavor of many dishes, from pasta to sandwiches. It’s easy to make and tastes best when fresh, but if you have leftovers or want to make a double batch for later use, it’s important to know how to properly store your pesto so that it stays fresh and flavorful.
The best way to keep pesto fresh is to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well for this purpose. Make sure to scrape the sides of the container down to eliminate any air pockets before sealing it. Pesto can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, although it’s best to use it within three to four days for optimal flavor. Alternatively, you can freeze your pesto for longer storage. Portion out your pesto into small containers or ice cube trays, making sure to leave some headspace for expansion. Pesto can be frozen for up to six months, making it easy to enjoy your favorite sauce any time of the year.
The Best Brands of Store-Bought Pesto to Keep in Your Pantry
If you’re in a rush and don’t have time to make your own pesto sauce, don’t worry, there are some great store-bought brands available that will do the trick. The best brands of store-bought pesto give you the same fresh taste of homemade pesto, with a fraction of the time and effort required to make it from scratch.
One excellent option is the classic Genovese Pesto from Barilla. This brand is made with only the freshest ingredients, including premium basil and extra-virgin olive oil. The pesto has a smooth texture with a bit of a nutty flavor. Another top choice is the Vegan Kale Pesto from Seggiano. This brand is perfect for those with dietary restrictions as it’s completely plant-based while still delivering a rich and complex taste. Ultimately, choosing the right store-bought pesto will depend on your preferences and cooking needs, but rest assured that there are plenty of delicious options available.
Unexpected Ways to Enjoy Pesto as a Snack or Appetizer.
Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be enjoyed in many different ways. One of the best and most unexpected ways to enjoy pesto is as a snack or appetizer. There are many creative ways to incorporate pesto into your snacks and appetizers to impress your guests.
One simple way to enjoy pesto as a snack is by spreading it on top of toasted baguette slices and topping them with sliced cherry tomatoes and grated parmesan cheese. Another idea is to make pesto and cream cheese pinwheels by spreading a mixture of cream cheese and pesto on a tortilla, rolling it up, and slicing it into bite-sized pieces. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and try new things to enjoy your pesto in unexpected ways!
Wrapping Up
Pesto is a versatile and delicious addition that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re looking to add some flavor to your pasta, sandwiches, or snacks, pesto is an excellent choice that can help elevate any dish. From traditional Italian recipes to modern twists, there are countless ways to experiment and discover new pesto-based dishes that suit your personal tastes.
In short, there are numerous ways to use pesto in your cooking, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different recipes. With its bold flavor and versatility, pesto is sure to become a staple in your kitchen and a go-to ingredient for enhancing your favorite dishes. So the next time you’re wondering what to do with your pesto, remember that the possibilities are endless!