Are you looking for a flavorful and aromatic addition to your dinner routine? Look no further than pesto, the classic Italian sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. With its rich, herby flavor and vibrant green color, pesto is the perfect ingredient to elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to cook, we’ve got 20 delicious pesto dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic pasta dishes to innovative twists on old favorites, these recipes showcase the versatility and potency of pesto. With ingredients ranging from chicken and shrimp to zucchini and quinoa, there’s something for everyone in this collection of tasty treats. So go ahead, get creative, and let the power of pesto transform your meals!
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
Experience the simplicity of Italian cuisine with this classic basil pesto pasta recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pesto Recipe:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine pesto ingredients. Whisk together until smooth.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the pesto sauce and toss to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Pesto Chicken Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Creamy Pesto Chicken Alfredo recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and pesto sauce. Stir to combine, then add cooked fettuccine pasta and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with pasta mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe, featuring the earthy sweetness of portobello mushrooms paired with the vibrant taste of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the mushrooms and remove the stems.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian dish combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful pesto sauce, garlic, and lemon for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add butter and garlic; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add pesto and lemon juice to the skillet.
6. Stir constantly for 1 minute to combine flavors.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet; toss with pesto sauce to coat.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Pesto Salmon with Lemon
Elevate your salmon game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of pesto with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and lemon juice.
3. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the pesto-lemon mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Remove from grill and garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pesto Pizza with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes on a crispy pizza crust, creating a delicious and savory treat. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb pizza dough
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread pesto sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and chopped basil over the pesto.
5. Top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto Risotto with Parmesan
A creamy, flavorful risotto infused with the bright, herby taste of pesto and topped with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken or vegetable broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until the rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Garlic Bread
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful pesto garlic bread recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Italian bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and pesto sauce until well combined.
4. Brush the olive oil onto each bread slice, then spread about 1 tablespoon of the garlic-pesto mixture on top of each slice.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Chicken Panini
Pesto Chicken Panini Recipe
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Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Pesto Chicken Panini recipe. Fresh basil pesto, juicy chicken, and melted mozzarella come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, sliced
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil pesto
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 slices of mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one side of each bread slice with the basil pesto.
3. Top each bread slice with a few slices of chicken, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a slice of mozzarella cheese.
4. Drizzle the top of each sandwich with olive oil.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Caprese Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic caprese salad, this Pesto Caprese Salad combines the sweetness of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes with the savory flavor of basil pesto. Perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a plate.
2. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
3. Drizzle the basil pesto over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creamy and flavorful twist. Pesto adds a rich and herby note to the classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred variety)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on the unbuttered side of one bread slice.
4. Place one slice of cheese on top of the pesto.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pesto Zucchini Noodles
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing summer recipe! Pesto Zucchini Noodles is a light and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of zucchini with the rich flavors of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Quinoa Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful Pesto Quinoa Salad! With the nutty taste of quinoa, the tanginess of pesto, and the freshness of herbs, you’ll be hooked.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast
A flavorful twist on classic chicken breast, this recipe combines the richness of pesto with the tender juiciness of roasted poultry.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potatoes into a flavorful and aromatic dish with the addition of pesto! This recipe combines the richness of garlic buttered potatoes with the bright, herby taste of basil.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, pesto, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time:
– Boiling time: 15-20 minutes
– Mashing time: 5 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Bake
Transform classic tortellini into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pesto
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in pesto and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, pesto mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Toss to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Veggie Stir-Fry
Transform ordinary vegetables into a flavorful and vibrant dish with this quick and easy Pesto Veggie Stir-Fry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto Eggplant Parmesan
A twist on the classic eggplant parmesan, this recipe adds a vibrant and flavorful pesto sauce to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Olive oil, for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated eggplant slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine pesto and tomato sauce. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
6. Assemble the parmesan by spreading a layer of pesto-tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, followed by a layer of fried eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Pesto Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze. Toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant pesto mixture, creamy mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. Spread a layer of pesto on each toasted slice.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the cheese.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Lasagna Rolls
Transform classic lasagna into a new level of comfort food with these delectable Pesto Lasagna Rolls. Fresh basil and garlic infuse the pesto sauce, while melted mozzarella cheese holds everything together.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see below for recipe)
– 12 oz ricotta cheese
– 12 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Sauce:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. Spread a thin layer of pesto sauce on each noodle, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons ricotta cheese on one end of the noodle, followed by 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Roll up the noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Repeat with remaining noodles and cheese.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 20 mouthwatering pesto recipes! From classic pasta dishes like Basil Pesto Pasta and Creamy Pesto Chicken Alfredo, to creative twists like Pesto-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms and Grilled Pesto Salmon with Lemon. You’ll also find crowd-pleasers like Pesto Pizza with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pesto Risotto with Parmesan. And don’t forget about the comforting sides – Pesto Garlic Bread and Pesto Mashed Potatoes are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes have something for everyone.
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