1 Oz Pesto Sauce has 151 calories per serving, making it a popular addition to pasta dishes. Made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto sauce is a flavorful and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking to spice up your meals or add more flavor to your favorite dishes, pesto sauce is a great option to consider.

In addition to its great taste, pesto sauce is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Basil, the main ingredient, is high in vitamin K, which is crucial for bone health, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Pine nuts are a good source of protein and heart-healthy fats, while olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.

In this article, we'll explore the many ways you can use pesto sauce, including as a marinade, sandwich spread, and topping for appetizers. We'll also provide tips on how to store pesto sauce and offer a simple homemade pesto recipe to try.

A Delicious Addition to Any Pasta Dish

Pesto sauce is a classic topping for pasta dishes, from traditional spaghetti and pesto to trendy zoodles (zucchini noodles) and pesto. The sauce adds a burst of fresh flavor to any dish, making it a popular choice for Italian food lovers. To use pesto sauce on pasta, simply toss the cooked noodles with the sauce before serving. For an extra boost of flavor, add some roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken to the dish. Whether you're making a quick dinner for yourself or entertaining guests, pesto pasta is a crowd pleaser that is sure to impress.

Versatile Ingredient for Creative Cooking

Pesto sauce is not just for pasta! It can also be used as a versatile ingredient to add flavor to a variety of dishes. Use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or seafood, mix it into scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast, or spread it on a sandwich for a tasty lunch. You can also use pesto sauce to add flavor to dips, sauces, and dressings. Mix it with Greek yogurt for a healthy dip, or blend it with mayonnaise and lemon juice for a zesty salad dressing. The possibilities are endless when it comes to using pesto sauce in your cooking. Get creative and try new things to see what works best for you!

Healthy Condiment Alternative

Pesto sauce is a healthier alternative to many other condiments, such as ketchup and mayonnaise. It's made from fresh, whole ingredients and contains heart-healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts. One tablespoon of pesto sauce contains around 80 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for adding flavor to your meals. It's also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and iron. If you're looking to make healthier choices in your diet, consider swapping out your favorite condiments for pesto sauce. It will add flavor and nutrition to your meals without the added sugars and preservatives found in many other options.

Easy Homemade Pesto Recipe

Making your own pesto sauce is easy and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. Here's a simple recipe you can try at home:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Add more olive oil if needed to achieve desired consistency. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

How to Store Pesto Sauce

To keep your pesto sauce fresh and flavorful, it's important to store it properly. One of the easiest ways to do this is by transferring it to an airtight container, such as a mason jar or plastic container, and storing it in the fridge. If you want to keep the bright green color of the pesto, place a layer of olive oil on top of the sauce before sealing the container. This will help to prevent oxidation and keep the sauce fresh for longer. Pesto sauce can also be frozen for long-term storage. Simply transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to six months.

Pesto Sauce Variations to Try

While traditional pesto is made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, there are many variations you can try to switch things up. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto - Use sun-dried tomatoes in place of basil for a sweeter, more intense flavor.
• Spinach Pesto - Swap out the basil for baby spinach for a milder taste and extra nutrition.
• Cilantro Pesto - Use cilantro instead of basil for a bold, fresh flavor that pairs well with spicy dishes.
• Walnut Pesto - Substitute walnuts for pine nuts for a richer, nuttier taste.

Experiment with different combinations of herbs, nuts, and cheeses to find your perfect pesto flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Pesto Sauce

Pesto sauce is packed with nutrition and offers many health benefits. Here are a few of the key nutrients found in pesto sauce:

• Vitamin K - Basil is a good source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health and helps to prevent blood clots.
• Iron - Pesto sauce contains iron, a mineral that is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
• Healthy Fats - The olive oil and pine nuts in pesto sauce provide heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

By adding pesto sauce to your meals, you can boost your intake of these important nutrients and improve your overall health.

Pesto Sauce as a Marinade

Pesto sauce makes a great marinade for chicken, fish, and other meats. Simply coat the protein in the sauce and let it marinate in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. The flavors of the herbs and spices will infuse the meat, creating a delicious and flavorful dish. Experiment with different types of protein and pesto flavors to find your favorite combination. Using pesto sauce as a marinade is a simple and healthy way to add flavor to your meals.

Pesto Sauce as a Sandwich Spread

Pesto sauce makes a great alternative to mayonnaise or mustard on a sandwich or burger. Spread it on the bread before adding your toppings for an extra burst of flavor. Pair the pesto with fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced tomatoes, and arugula for a delicious caprese sandwich. Or try it with roasted turkey, avocado, and bacon for a unique twist on a classic club. Using pesto sauce as a sandwich spread is an easy way to add flavor to your lunch or dinner.

Pesto-Topped Appetizers

Pesto sauce makes a great topping for appetizers, from bruschetta to crostini. Spread it on a sliced baguette before adding toppings like fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, or prosciutto. You can also use pesto sauce as a dip for veggies, crackers, or breadsticks. Mix it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy and tangy dip that is sure to please. Pesto-topped appetizers are a great way to impress guests at your next dinner party or get-together.