Pesto recipes are the perfect way to elevate your weekly dinner menu. The creamy sauce adds a burst of freshness and zing to any dish, making it a staple in many kitchens. When I make my own pesto, I like to load up on garlic and an extra dose of cheese for an added depth of flavor. However, store-bought options are perfectly fine too. What’s most important is that you enjoy the process of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.
Whether you’re a grilled cheese aficionado or a chicken connoisseur, these recipes showcase the versatility of pesto as it pairs beautifully with everything from crispy bread to succulent meats.
Easy Pesto Pasta
Pesto pasta is often a reliable choice when it comes to satisfying our taste buds. The union of basil-infused pesto and al dente pasta is undeniably harmonious. However, taking it up a notch can elevate this dish from pleasant to exceptional. Adding a handful of peppery arugula, a burst of citrusy lemon juice, a sprinkle of nutty parmesan cheese, and a hint of spicy chili flakes brings forth a depth of flavor that might just surprise you.
This trifling extra effort is what transforms an already great meal into an unforgettable experience.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
The pasta dish is a masterclass in flavor combination, featuring tender chicken, ripe cherry tomatoes, pungent garlic, nutty parmesan, and the tangy zip of pesto. It’s a veritable smorgasbord of tastes that will leave you wanting more. But what truly sets it apart is its ability to deliver on the promise of a quick and satisfying 30-minute dinner solution for even the most demanding weeknights.
(No-Rise) Slow Cooker Basil Pesto Bread
Make this delicious six-ingredient basil pesto bread without being a skilled baker or owning a bread machine! Simply combine all the necessary ingredients and let them sit for just a few minutes before transferring the dough to your slow cooker. After a couple of hours, you’ll have a mouth-watering, savory loaf infused with the flavors of basil that everyone in the family will love.
Sun-Dried Tomato Prosciutto Pesto Pizza
For an unforgettable pizza night, why not surprise your family with a delectable pie that’s bursting with flavor? Imagine a crust topped with savory prosciutto, robust sun-dried tomatoes, nutty parmesan cheese, and crunchy pistachios. What really sets this pizza apart is the absence of traditional red sauce – instead, opt for a rich and herby pesto to elevate the overall taste experience.
Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Arugula Pesto
Indulge in this delectable grilled cheese, a sophisticated take on the childhood staple that will leave you craving more with each passing day. The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and homemade arugula pesto nestled between two slices of crispy sourdough is nothing short of irresistible. To achieve the perfect golden-brown crust, butter your bread generously before sinking your teeth into this indulgent delight.
Baked Tilapia with Spinach Pecan Pesto
Transforming weeknight dinners into culinary masterpieces doesn’t have to break the bank or require an eternity in the kitchen. This delectable tilapia recipe embodies the perfect blend of quality and convenience, offering a restaurant-worthy experience at a fraction of the cost. By combining a simple yet flavorful pesto with tender tilapia, you’ll be creating a dish that’s both impressive and effortless to prepare.
Simply mix together your pesto ingredients, spread it evenly over the fish, and let the oven do its magic – voila! A mouthwatering meal that’s sure to elevate your weeknight dinner game.
Pesto Pita Pizza
Need a quick and easy pizza fix? Ditch the hassle of traditional pizza making and try using pita bread as your crust. It’s a game-changer for busy days when you just don’t have the time or patience to knead and shape dough. This pesto pita pizza is perfect for a satisfying lunch, dinner, or afternoon snack. Simply spread pesto on your pita bread, add some fun toppings like mushrooms, tomatoes, feta, and mozzarella, and let the magic happen.
In just 15 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to hit the spot.
Baked Brie Cheese with Sundried Tomatoes and Pesto
When it comes to baked brie, I’m always eager to try out new twists on this crowd-pleasing classic. This variation is a game-changer – it’s ridiculously easy to make and combines the creaminess of melted cheese with the bright, herby flavor of pesto. Simply spread a layer of pesto over the top of your brie, add any other desired toppings, and let the magic happen in just a few minutes under the broiler. The result is a dish that’s equal parts savory, fresh, and indulgent.
Shrimp Linguine with Lemon Artichoke Pesto
Pasta and shrimp – a match made in heaven! For those who share my enthusiasm for this classic combination, I’m thrilled to introduce a mouthwatering dinner recipe that’s sure to become a staple. The star of the show is the harmonious union of zesty artichoke hearts and creamy basil pesto, which can be effortlessly prepared with the aid of a reliable food processor or high-speed blender.
And don’t worry about cooking time – the shrimp cooks in no time, making it an ideal option for those short on time. With just 20 minutes to spare, you can whip up this speedy yet satisfying dish and enjoy a culinary treat.
Salmon Pesto Pasta
Indulge in the harmonious union of succulent salmon, rich pesto sauce, and al dente penne pasta, as this recipe becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire. The dish begins with tender chunks of juicy salmon, slow-cooked in a creamy pesto sauce that perfectly balances the flavors.
Just before serving, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper chili flakes add a delightful depth to the dish, highlighting the importance of subtle nuances in elevating the overall taste experience.
Sour Cream Pesto Dip with Prosciutto Dippers
Elevate your next gathering with an unexpected yet crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to spark conversation and craving. The combination of flaky puff pastry, nutty parmesan cheese, and salty prosciutto yields a delightful dippy delight. But what truly elevates these bite-sized treats is the rich and creamy pesto dip – a must-have accompaniment for any gathering seeking to impress.
Vegan Pesto Tofu Pasta
Transforming traditional pesto into a vegan-friendly dinner is surprisingly effortless. To achieve this, substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast, which boasts a cheesy, nutty flavor profile that perfectly complements various recipes. For instance, pair it with the savory and tender tofu pasta dish, featuring seasoned and baked tofu alongside linguine noodles and fresh pesto sauce. If you happen to have leftover sauce, consider freezing it for future use.
Dairy-Free Dill Pesto
While traditional pesto recipes often feature basil as the star ingredient, its versatility allows for experimentation with other herbs. Dill-based pesto offers a unique twist, retaining its signature freshness and pungency while introducing citrusy and grassy notes. This variation is particularly well-suited to seafood pairings, but also shines on falafels or even in potato salad, where it can be used as a mayo substitute for added depth.
Grilled Chicken Margherita
Transform the essence of margherita pizza into a mouthwatering low-carb chicken dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. This grilled chicken breast, smothered in gooey mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a rich layer of pesto, is an ideal combination for those seeking protein-packed goodness with a hint of Mediterranean flair. Whether you’re grilling for one or looking for a fun dish to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress.
Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Soup
There’s something undeniably cozy about savoring plump gnocchi enveloped in a rich pesto broth alongside tender shredded chicken and fresh spinach. This dish not only offers a satisfying meal, but also presents an innovative way to breathe new life into leftover chicken. The best part? You don’t have to spend hours waiting for it to come together, making it the perfect solution for a quick yet flavorful meal.
Cheesy Pesto Pull-Apart Bread
Pesto-infused cheesy bread is an irresistible combination that’s perfect for game days and holidays. The simple recipe requires only four ingredients: French bread, pesto, Italian cheese, and butter. Simply slice the loaf in half lengthwise, hollow out the center, and fill the crevices with a generous helping of pesto and shredded cheese. Don’t forget to dot the top with a pat of butter for added richness.
This impressive-looking appetizer is surprisingly easy to prepare and will satisfy a crowd of hungry fans or partygoers.
Baked Basil Pesto Chicken
When time is of the essence, this simple yet flavorful chicken dinner will be your go-to solution. Take a few chicken breasts and elevate them with a rich pesto spread, juicy tomatoes, melted mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh basil. This dish shares similarities with its grilled counterpart, the chicken margherita, but takes a different approach by baking instead of grilling – a perfect twist for those short on time or wanting to mix things up.
Chicken Pesto Roll-Ups
Take the classic combination of chicken, pesto, and cheese to new heights by rolling them up together. Add some juicy tomato slices for added flavor and texture. Then, pop these roll-ups in the oven with some melted butter and cherry tomatoes to create a dish that’s as fresh as it is savory. This fun twist on a familiar favorite is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Pesto Lasagna Roll-Ups
Elevate your pesto roll-ups by incorporating lasagna sheets into the mix. Spread ricotta, fresh pesto, and a blend of cheeses evenly across the pasta, then roll it up neatly. Take it to the next level by enveloping everything in a rich, creamy bechamel sauce. The result is an indulgent twist on traditional pasta rolls that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Pesto Quinoa Salad
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this scrumptious vegan quinoa salad recipe. A hearty bed of fluffy quinoa serves as the perfect base for a colorful medley of olives, artichoke hearts, and juicy tomatoes. And let’s be honest, what truly brings this dish to life is a generous drizzle of creamy vegan pesto – a game-changer that elevates each bite to new heights.
Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken
Indulge in the simplicity and flavor of this delectable zoodle dish! The combination of spiralized zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and succulent chicken creates a harmonious blend that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying. To take it to the next level, a drizzle of rich pesto adds an undeniable layer of depth. This low-carb and wholesome meal is perfect for a hot summer evening, offering a guilt-free indulgence that will leave you craving more.
Turkey Pesto Sandwich
Are you tired of your daily turkey sandwich routine? Shake things up by adding a burst of flavor with pesto! The creamy sauce beautifully complements the sweet sun-dried tomatoes, melted Provolone cheese, and savory turkey. To take it to the next level, ditch the deli slices and opt for oven-roasted carved turkey and crispy turkey bacon – the perfect combination to revive your lunchtime staple.
Creamy Avocado Basil Pesto Spaghetti
Indulge in a delectable spaghetti dish that allows the star of the show – fresh basil – to take center stage. This quick and easy 10-minute dinner is all about showcasing the herb’s natural charm through a creamy avocado basil pesto. To elevate this simple yet flavorful recipe, add an extra sprinkle of basil and a squeeze of lemon juice for an explosion of freshness.
One key trick to keep costs in check is substituting pine nuts with walnuts in the pesto, which not only saves you money but also adds a delightful texture to the dish. By resisting the urge to over-accessorize with additional pasta fillings, you’re able to truly appreciate the beauty of the basil and the rich notes of the pesto, making this a standout meal that’s sure to please.
Pesto Fried Rice
While fried rice is often associated with Asian cuisine, it’s surprisingly easy to give it a Mediterranean makeover. Start by coating a bed of rice with pesto, then add ingredients that complement each other like cherry tomatoes, olives, spinach, and peas. If you’re looking for an added burst of flavor, crumbly feta or goat cheese work beautifully. For a vegan alternative, simply swap out the cheese for nutritional yeast-based pesto.
Pesto Stuffed Chicken (with Cream Cheese)
Indulge in another mouthwatering dinner option with this delectable stuffed chicken dish featuring a pesto twist. The exterior boasts a satisfying crispy golden-brown breadcrumb coating, giving way to a rich and creamy surprise within. A clever combination of cream cheese and pesto adds an unexpected layer of flavor, making it a cinch to impress even the most discerning palates. This unique take on chicken is sure to leave everyone at the table eager for seconds.
Pesto Pasta with Green Beans and Potatoes
Why settle for just one delicious dish when you can combine the best of both worlds? Introduce your taste buds to a game-changing fusion of pasta and potato salad. This mouthwatering masterpiece features tender potatoes, crisp green beans, and fettuccine swimming in a vibrant pesto sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The finishing touch is a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, adding a delightful balance of sweet and tangy notes.
Whether you’re planning a potluck, picnic, family gathering, or just need a quick and easy lunch, this show-stopping pesto pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Chicken Pesto Pizza
Indulge in the ultimate pizza experience, where every bite is a delight! This delectable pie boasts an impressive array of toppings, including succulent chicken and aromatic pesto, paired perfectly with melted mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, briny kalamata olives, and sweet red onions. While some may opt for a side of creamy Ranch dressing, I prefer to elevate the flavor by dipping the crust into an extra dose of rich pesto.
Homemade Pesto Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your classic spaghetti and meatballs by introducing a delicious twist. While beef or pork meatballs are certainly mouthwatering, their chicken counterparts offer a leaner and healthier alternative. The key to amplifying the flavor of these leaner meatballs lies in the use of pesto. This creamy condiment not only adds an intense burst of herby goodness but also serves as a masterful flavor enhancer.
To truly bring out the best in your chicken meatballs, pair them with a generous serving of spaghetti smothered in a rich and tangy pesto sauce. The resulting dish is nothing short of satisfying.
Keto Chicken Pesto Stuffed Sweet Peppers
Regardless of whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply looking to spice up your snack game, these four-ingredient stuffed peppers are sure to captivate your taste buds. The combination of tender cooked chicken, flavorful pesto, and melted cheese, all nestled within a crunchy mini pepper, is a match made in heaven. With a mere 6 net carbs per serving, it’s an indulgent treat that won’t break the carb bank.
Whether you’re hosting guests or just need a quick pick-me-up, these bite-sized treats are the perfect solution.
