Pesto itself can be dressed up in many ways, but basic pesto complements well with more than just pastas and pizzas. Grab your basil and olive oil – it’s time for a pesto party.
1. Braided Pesto Bread
Photo courtesy of thebrewerandthebaker.com
This is one of those recipes to whip up if you want to impress guests, but don’t have much time. You can make all the components by hand, or you can buy canned pesto and frozen dough and make it even easier. Whichever way you choose, just braid the dough and you’ll get a scrumptious, aesthetically pleasing product that looks like it just came out of a local bakery.
2. Pesto Chicken
Photo courtesy of foodnetwork.com
When it comes to chicken, the breast is probably one of the least flavorful parts due to its low fat content. Chicken breast always needs a good marinade, sauce or seasoning to liven it up, and using pesto is perfect for the job.
3. Pesto Popcorn
Photo courtesy of brit.co
If you’re craving a savory snack, consider making some of this Italy-inspired popcorn. With the flavorful combination of pesto and parmesan cheese coating the crunchy popcorn, your bowl will be empty before you know it.
4. Pesto Sandwich
Photo courtesy of Libby Peroid
Using pesto in sandwiches is just as popular as using it in pastas and pizzas, but this sandwich just looks too dang good not to post. You can smear it on pretty much any kind of sandwich – hot or cold – and there’s a 99% chance you won’t regret it.
5. Pesto Panna Cotta
Photo courtesy of saveur.com
Now, here’s odd but innovative recipe. Thought pesto was only savory? Well, it seems that pesto has its place in desserts too. Sure, its not as sweet as an original panna cotta, but we all need a nice change once in a while.
6. Pesto Tarts
Photo courtesy of cosmopolitan.com
These tarts are the cutest little appetizers to serve at your next shindig. If you use store-bought puff pastry, its basically requires no work at all. Just add a teaspoon of pesto with a slice of tomato, and you’ve got yourself a classy crowd pleaser.
7. Pesto Frittata
Photo courtesy of marthastewart.com
Here’s your chance to eat pesto for breakfast (not that you couldn’t before). Seems like this tomato, cheese and pesto are inseparable, and adding eggs to the mix makes for a flavorful, filling frittata.
8. Pesto Beans
Photo courtesy of nytimes.com
If you don’t like beans, you might just change your mind after they’re covered in pesto. The nuttiness and perfume from the pesto can help disguise the taste of the beans if that’s what you don’t like. This dish is also a great option for those looking for a protein-rich, meatless meal.
9. Pesto Rice and Meatballs
Photo courtesy of taste.com.au
Ladies and gentlemen, here is a perfect addition to your next St. Patty’s day meal. All the green from the peas, pesto and arugula makes for an eye-popping dish that is almost too pretty to eat, but the tender meatballs and rice make that nearly impossible.