Top 10 Ways To Use Up Pesto

Got some leftover pesto sitting in your fridge? Don’t let it go to waste! Pesto can add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. From pasta to sandwiches, here are the top 10 creative ways to make the most of your leftover pesto:

1. Pesto Pasta

It’s a classic for a reason! Toss your favorite pasta with some extra pesto for a quick and easy meal. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed twist.

2. Pesto Pizza

Give your regular pizza a gourmet upgrade by spreading a thin layer of pesto as the base sauce. Top it with your favorite toppings and cheese, and bake it until golden and bubbly. Your taste buds will thank you!

3. Pesto Bruschetta

Add a Mediterranean twist to your bruschetta by spreading some pesto on toasted baguette slices. Top it with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a burst of flavor in every bite.

4. Pesto Grilled Cheese

Take your grilled cheese sandwich to the next level by spreading a layer of pesto on the inside. Pair it with some melty mozzarella or sharp cheddar for a gooey, savory delight.

5. Pesto Stuffed Chicken

Elevate your boring chicken breast by stuffing it with pesto and cheese. Bake it in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and gooey. This is a surefire way to impress your dinner guests!

6. Pesto Quinoa Salad

Looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish? Mix cooked quinoa with some pesto, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, and crumbled feta cheese. It’s the perfect summer salad!

7. Pesto Vegetable Skewers

Add some excitement to your grilled veggies by brushing them with a pesto marinade. Skewer them along with some bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, and grill them to perfection.

8. Pesto Crostini

Slice a baguette into thin rounds, toast them in the oven until crispy, and then spread each piece with a dollop of pesto. Serve them as an appetizer or a snack for a flavor-packed bite-sized treat.

9. Pesto Dip

Create a quick and easy dip for your next gathering by mixing pesto with Greek yogurt or cream cheese. Serve it with fresh veggies, crackers, or crusty bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

10. Pesto Salad Dressing

If you’re tired of the same old salad dressing, whisk some pesto together with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Drizzle it over your favorite greens for a refreshing and flavorful dressing.

So, next time you find yourself with a jar of leftover pesto, get creative and try one of these top 10 ways to use it up. Your taste buds will thank you for the explosion of delicious flavors!

Have any creative ideas for using up leftover pesto? Share your favorite recipes and tips in the Ingredients Spotlight forum!

FAQ:

Can I use pesto as a marinade for meat and vegetables?

Absolutely! Pesto can add a flavorful twist to your marinades. It works particularly well with chicken, fish, and vegetables. Simply coat your protein or veggies with pesto and let it marinate for a few hours in the refrigerator. Then cook it as desired for a delicious and herbaceous taste.

Is it possible to incorporate pesto into sauces or dressings?

Definitely! Pesto can be a versatile ingredient in sauces and dressings. You can mix it with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to create a flavorful dip for vegetables or a spread for sandwiches. Additionally, you can blend pesto into tomato sauce, cream sauce, or vinaigrettes to enhance their taste and give them a vibrant green color.

Can pesto be used as a topping for pizzas and bruschetta?

Absolutely! Pesto adds a burst of flavor to pizzas and bruschetta. Use it as a base sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce, and then add your favorite toppings. It pairs particularly well with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and grilled vegetables. Similarly, you can spread it on grilled bread for a delicious and easy appetizer.

How can I use pesto to elevate my pasta dishes?

Pesto and pasta are a match made in heaven! Toss cooked pasta with pesto and add some extra ingredients like cherry tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for a quick and delicious meal. You can also mix in some cream or cheese to create a creamy pesto pasta dish.

Can pesto be used as a flavoring for soups and stews?

Absolutely! Adding a dollop of pesto to your soups and stews can infuse them with a bold and aromatic flavor. Stir it in just before serving to preserve the fresh taste of the pesto. It works particularly well in tomato-based soups and vegetable stews.

Can I use pesto as a spread for sandwiches and wraps?

Absolutely! Pesto makes an excellent spread for sandwiches and wraps. Its vibrant flavors can complement a variety of ingredients, such as grilled vegetables, chicken, turkey, or cheese. Spread pesto on your bread or tortilla before adding your fillings and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite.

Is it possible to freeze pesto for later use?

Yes, freezing pesto is a great way to preserve its flavors. You can store it in ice cube trays and then transfer the frozen pesto cubes into a resealable bag or airtight container. Whenever you need pesto, simply thaw the desired amount and enjoy its fresh taste.

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Top 10 Ways To Use Up Pesto