How to Make Pesto

Late spring is the ideal season to utilise the fresh herbs sprouting and whip up a delightful batch of homemade pesto. This tasty sauce is beloved for its flavour and versatility in a range of dishes, like in these pesto recipes. A simple jar of pesto can offer countless possibilities and uses. Discover all things pesto, including how to make your own sauce and easy-to-make pesto recipes.

Cooking with pesto

One of the reasons pesto is so popular is because it has a range of tasty uses in cooking. Aside from being a stand-alone sauce, pesto is commonly paired with many meat and fish dishes, as well as being a popular sauce for pasta.
People love using pesto to add a rich, herby and salty taste to meals. It’s perfect to liven up a creamy pasta sauce or add extra flavour to a fish crust. Many HelloFresh recipes pair pesto with crème fraîche or roasted tomatoes, as the creaminess or acidicness complements the salty pesto.

How to make pesto sauce

Pesto sauce is a relatively easy recipe to make and requires only a few ingredients. Once you have the ingredients, you can simply throw them into a food processor and blitz them together. Check the seasoning while blending with a taste test to see if you need additional salt or pepper.

Pesto ingredients

As with most recipes, the fresher the ingredients, the better the pesto. This will give your pesto the most authentic flavour.

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 
• 1/3 cup chopped pine nuts
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• Salt and pepper

How long does pesto last?

Because of the fresh ingredients, homemade pesto only lasts around five days. It should be kept refrigerated and in an airtight jar to keep it fresh. To maximise the shelf life of your sauce, add a drizzle of olive oil. And remember to savour every last bite while it’s still fresh!

What to serve with pesto

There is an abundance of delectable options to choose from when it comes to pairing dishes with pesto. Some of the most popular meals include: 

Pesto with pizza

Use pesto as a tasty pizza topping. The flavours of garlic and basil complement many types of pizzas and Italian dishes.

Pesto with potato

Add a few spoonfuls of pesto to mashed potato or roasted potato wedges for a zesty flavour. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover homemade sauce.

Pesto in sandwiches 

For a tasty lunch idea, spread a layer of pesto on your sandwich or panini. Include a few slices of juicy tomato and fresh mozzarella for an authentic Italian taste. You can also try preparing this creamy pesto sandwich recipe with potato wedges on the side.

Pesto dinner platters

Use pesto as a dip for your next dinner party. Offer your fresh homemade pesto for guests to enjoy with breadsticks and a selection of cheeses, meats and vegetable sticks.

Pesto for pasta 

Pesto makes a delicious and simple pasta sauce that compliments an array of pasta ingredients perfectly, including vegetables, chicken and cheese. For a classic pesto pasta, simply cook the pasta of your choice, stir in a few tablespoons of pesto and then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Recipes with pesto

There are countless recipes available with tasty ideas for using your fresh pesto. Try one of these for dinner tonight:

• Plant-Based Basil Pesto & Pumpkin Fettuccine recipe
• Lentil, Veggie & Red Pesto Spaghetti recipe
• Creamy Basil Pesto & Bacon Pasta Bake recipe
• Beef Rump & Creamy Pesto Sauce recipe

Try these recipes and more, with fast, fresh and convenient deliveries every week. Choose the best HelloFresh meal plan for your household and start enjoying simply delicious meals.