Pesto, that vibrant green sauce hailing from Genoa, Italy, is a culinary powerhouse. More than just a condiment, it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. But what is pesto best with? The answer, delightfully, is multifaceted. From classic pairings to unexpected delights, let’s embark on a flavorful adventure exploring the versatility of this beloved sauce.
Pasta: The Timeless Pesto Partnership
The most iconic use of pesto is undoubtedly with pasta. The creamy, herbaceous sauce clings beautifully to various pasta shapes, creating a simple yet satisfying meal.
Choosing the Right Pasta
While pesto works with almost any pasta shape, certain varieties complement it better than others. Ligurian tradition favors trenette, a long, flat pasta similar to linguine but with ruffled edges. These edges provide extra surface area for the pesto to adhere to. Another excellent choice is trofie, a twisted pasta shape that hails from the same region. Its unique shape perfectly captures the pesto, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Other suitable pasta shapes include:
- Linguine: A classic choice that always delivers.
- Spaghetti: A readily available and versatile option.
- Penne: The ridges of penne provide ample space for the pesto to nestle in.
- Fusilli: The corkscrew shape of fusilli makes it an ideal vehicle for pesto.
- Orecchiette: These “little ears” are perfect for scooping up generous amounts of sauce.
Beyond the Basic Pesto Pasta
Once you’ve chosen your pasta shape, the possibilities are endless. While pesto alone is delicious, consider adding complementary ingredients to elevate the dish. Cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted vegetables add a touch of sweetness and texture. Pine nuts, toasted almonds, or walnuts provide a delightful crunch. Fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese creates a creamy, decadent experience.
For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing tang. Experiment with different combinations to discover your personal favorite pesto pasta creation.
Pesto as a Sauce for Proteins
Pesto’s versatility extends far beyond pasta. It serves as an exceptional sauce for a wide range of proteins, adding a burst of flavor and visual appeal to any dish.
Grilled Chicken and Pesto: A Match Made in Heaven
Grilled chicken and pesto are a natural pairing. The slightly smoky flavor of the chicken complements the herbaceous notes of the pesto beautifully. Simply grill chicken breasts or thighs to perfection and top with a generous dollop of pesto.
You can also use pesto as a marinade for chicken. The basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese infuse the chicken with flavor, resulting in a tender and delicious meal. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
Fish and Seafood: A Pesto Powerhouse
Pesto is surprisingly delicious with fish and seafood. Its bright, fresh flavors cut through the richness of the fish, creating a balanced and flavorful dish.
Try spreading pesto on salmon fillets before baking or grilling. The pesto will create a flavorful crust that keeps the salmon moist and tender. It’s also excellent with white fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass. For shrimp, toss them with pesto and grill or sauté them until pink and cooked through.
Pesto with Meats Beyond Chicken
Don’t limit yourself to just chicken. Pesto can enhance the flavor of other meats as well. Try spreading it on grilled steak, pork chops, or lamb chops. It adds a vibrant touch and complements the savory flavors of the meat.
Pesto can also be used as a filling for stuffed meats. Combine it with breadcrumbs, cheese, and other seasonings, then stuff it into chicken breasts, pork tenderloin, or even meatballs.
Pesto in Sandwiches and Wraps: Elevating Everyday Eats
Pesto is a fantastic addition to sandwiches and wraps, adding a burst of flavor and freshness to your everyday lunch.
The Ultimate Pesto Sandwich
Transform your ordinary sandwich into a gourmet delight by adding a layer of pesto. It pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including:
- Roasted vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions.
- Grilled chicken or turkey: Adds protein and substance.
- Fresh mozzarella or provolone cheese: Creates a creamy, cheesy experience.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Prosciutto or salami: For a salty, savory kick.
Spread pesto on both slices of bread or use it as a base for other condiments like mayonnaise or aioli.
Pesto Wraps: A Quick and Easy Lunch
Pesto wraps are a convenient and flavorful option for a quick lunch or snack. Simply spread pesto on a tortilla and add your favorite fillings. Some popular combinations include:
- Chicken, pesto, mozzarella, and spinach.
- Turkey, pesto, avocado, and tomato.
- Hummus, pesto, roasted vegetables, and feta cheese.
Roll up the tortilla and enjoy. You can also grill or pan-fry the wrap for a warm and crispy treat.
Pesto as a Topping and Garnish
Pesto is more than just a sauce; it can also be used as a topping or garnish to add a final flourish of flavor and visual appeal to various dishes.
Pesto on Pizza: A Culinary Twist
Move over tomato sauce! Pesto makes an excellent pizza topping. Spread it on the crust as a base or drizzle it over the finished pizza for an extra burst of flavor.
Pesto pairs well with a variety of pizza toppings, including:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Tomatoes
- Artichoke hearts
- Black olives
- Mushrooms
- Grilled chicken
- Prosciutto
Pesto with Eggs: A Breakfast Boost
Add a touch of pesto to your eggs for a flavorful breakfast. It’s delicious with scrambled eggs, omelets, and frittatas. Simply stir a spoonful of pesto into the eggs before cooking or dollop it on top of the finished dish.
Pesto also pairs well with avocado toast. Spread avocado on toast and top with a dollop of pesto and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Pesto as a Garnish for Soups and Salads
A swirl of pesto adds a touch of elegance and flavor to soups and salads. Drizzle it over tomato soup, minestrone, or vegetable soup for a burst of freshness. Toss pesto with your favorite salad greens or use it as a dressing for a Caprese salad.
Unconventional Pesto Pairings: Expanding Your Culinary Horizons
While classic pairings are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional pesto combinations. You might be surprised at the delicious results.
Pesto with Potatoes: A Starchy Sensation
Pesto and potatoes are a surprisingly delicious pairing. Toss roasted potatoes with pesto for a flavorful side dish. You can also add pesto to mashed potatoes for a creamy, herbaceous twist. Pesto is also excellent with potato salad.
Pesto with Vegetables: A Flavorful Boost
Pesto can enhance the flavor of a wide variety of vegetables. Toss roasted vegetables with pesto for a simple and flavorful side dish. It’s particularly delicious with:
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Green beans
- Zucchini
You can also add pesto to vegetable soups or use it as a dip for raw vegetables.
Pesto with Bread: Beyond Sandwiches
Pesto and bread are a natural pairing. Spread pesto on toasted bread for a simple appetizer or snack. You can also use it as a dip for crusty bread. Pesto is also delicious in bread dough, adding flavor and moisture.
Pesto: Sweet and Savory Adventures
Don’t underestimate pesto’s potential in sweet and savory combinations. A touch of pesto can add depth to fruit-based dishes or complement sweet cheeses in unexpected ways. Try it with baked brie or a fig and prosciutto pizza, incorporating a small amount to highlight the other flavors.
Making Your Own Pesto: A DIY Delight
While store-bought pesto is convenient, nothing beats the flavor of homemade pesto. It’s surprisingly easy to make and allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking.
Classic Pesto Recipe
Here’s a basic pesto recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor.
- Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations on a Theme: Exploring Different Pesto Flavors
Once you’ve mastered the basic pesto recipe, experiment with different variations. Try using different types of nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or pistachios. You can also substitute other herbs for basil, such as parsley, cilantro, or mint.
For a vegan pesto, omit the Parmesan cheese and substitute nutritional yeast. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Spicy pesto can be made by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a minced jalapeño pepper. For a sun-dried tomato pesto, add 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes to the food processor along with the other ingredients.
Storing Pesto: Keeping Your Green Goodness Fresh
Pesto is best used fresh, but it can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator. To prevent the pesto from browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before storing it in an airtight container.
Pesto can also be frozen for longer storage. Divide the pesto into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer bag or container. Frozen pesto will keep for several months.
The Enduring Appeal of Pesto: Why We Love It
Pesto’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, versatility, and vibrant flavor. It’s a culinary chameleon that can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary experiences. Whether you’re enjoying it with pasta, spreading it on a sandwich, or using it as a topping for pizza, pesto is sure to delight your taste buds. Its fresh, herbaceous flavor profile embodies the essence of Italian cuisine, making it a beloved staple in kitchens around the world. So, embrace the versatility of pesto and explore the countless ways to incorporate this delicious sauce into your culinary repertoire.
What are the most classic pairings for pesto?
The most iconic pairing for pesto is undoubtedly with pasta. Specifically, dishes like trenette al pesto, a Ligurian pasta variety, or simple spaghetti or linguine tossed with pesto, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese are time-honored classics. The rich, herbaceous flavor of the pesto perfectly coats the pasta, creating a satisfying and intensely flavorful dish that showcases the pesto itself.
Beyond pasta, another classic pairing involves tomatoes and mozzarella. A simple caprese salad, with slices of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and a dollop of pesto, offers a refreshing and vibrant flavor combination. The sweetness of the tomatoes, the creamy texture of the mozzarella, and the fragrant basil in the pesto create a harmonious and delightful appetizer or light meal.
Can pesto be used in non-Italian cuisine?
Absolutely! While pesto originates from Italy, its vibrant flavor profile lends itself beautifully to a wide array of cuisines beyond its traditional Italian context. Consider using pesto as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish, adding it to scrambled eggs for a flavorful breakfast, or swirling it into soups for an extra layer of depth.
Furthermore, pesto can be used to create unique and exciting flavor combinations in sandwiches and wraps. Spread it on a crusty baguette with roasted vegetables, add it to a chicken salad sandwich for a boost of flavor, or incorporate it into a vegetarian wrap with hummus and avocado. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your culinary creativity.
How can I elevate my pesto-based pasta dishes?
To elevate your pesto pasta, consider adding a protein such as grilled shrimp, chicken, or toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. Fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers also complement the pesto beautifully and add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
Another way to enhance your pesto pasta is to finish it with a touch of acidity. A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar can brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the pesto. Additionally, consider using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to further elevate the overall taste and presentation of the dish.
What are some creative ways to use pesto as a condiment?
Beyond pasta and salads, pesto shines as a versatile condiment that can add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Try using it as a spread for sandwiches and wraps, mixing it into dips like hummus or guacamole, or dolloping it on top of grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Its herbaceous and nutty notes can transform even the simplest dishes into something special.
Furthermore, pesto can be used to create flavorful sauces and dressings. Whisk it with olive oil and vinegar for a simple vinaigrette, blend it with mayonnaise for a flavorful aioli, or stir it into cream cheese for a delicious spread. The possibilities are endless, and pesto’s vibrant flavor makes it a welcome addition to any condiment collection.
Can pesto be used in baked goods?
Yes, surprisingly, pesto can add a unique and savory twist to baked goods. Incorporating pesto into bread dough creates a flavorful and aromatic loaf perfect for sandwiches or serving with soups. You can also add pesto to scones or muffins for a savory breakfast or snack option. The basil and garlic in pesto infuse the baked goods with a delightful herbaceous flavor.
Furthermore, consider using pesto as a topping for pizza or flatbreads. Spread it on the dough before adding other toppings for a boost of flavor, or drizzle it over the finished pizza as a garnish. The pesto adds a layer of complexity and freshness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
What cheeses pair best with pesto?
Parmesan cheese is the classic and most common cheese pairing for pesto, as its salty and nutty flavor complements the basil and garlic in the sauce. However, other cheeses can also work well, depending on the dish and your personal preferences. Consider using Pecorino Romano, a sheep’s milk cheese, for a sharper and more intense flavor.
Alternatively, softer cheeses like mozzarella or burrata can provide a creamy and refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the pesto. Goat cheese also pairs well, offering a tangy and slightly earthy flavor that complements the herbaceous notes of the pesto. Ultimately, the best cheese pairing depends on the specific dish and the desired flavor profile.
How can I store leftover pesto to maintain its freshness?
To preserve the vibrant flavor and color of leftover pesto, proper storage is essential. The best method is to transfer the pesto to an airtight container and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the surface. This helps to prevent oxidation and discoloration, keeping the pesto fresh for longer.
Another tip is to freeze the pesto in small portions using an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer bag for longer storage. This allows you to easily thaw only the amount of pesto you need, preventing waste and ensuring that it remains fresh and flavorful for future use.