Beyond The Pasta Bowl: Fun Ways To Use Leftover Pesto

There are a ton of delicious and fun ways to use leftover pesto! We all love a good plate of pasta tossed in vibrant and flavorful pesto. But sometimes, you might find yourself with a leftover jar of pesto staring back at you from the fridge. Don’t relegate it to pasta duty alone! Pesto is a surprisingly versatile ingredient that can be used in countless ways to add a burst of flavor to your meals.

The Versatility Of Pesto

Pesto, with its vibrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, nuts, and cheese, offers more than just a pasta sauce. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavor profile that can be used to elevate a variety of dishes, from appetizers to main courses, and even breakfast!

Unleashing The Creativity With Leftover Pesto

Here are some fun ways to use your leftover pesto and take your meals to the next level:

Pesto Pinwheels: Spread a thin layer of pesto on puff pastry dough. Roll it up tightly, slice it into pinwheels, and bake until golden brown for an easy and elegant appetizer.

Pesto Eggs Florentine: Elevate your morning scramble by stirring in a generous dollop of pesto along with chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a protein-packed and flavorful breakfast.

Pesto Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken chunks in a mixture of pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice. Thread them onto skewers and grill for a flavorful and protein-rich main course.

Pesto Pizza: Spread a thin layer of pesto over your pizza dough base instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top it with mozzarella cheese, roasted vegetables, and your favorite toppings for a unique and delicious pizza experience.

Tips For Using Leftover Pesto

Get Creative with Add-Ins: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Pesto pairs well with a variety of vegetables, proteins, and cheeses. For a touch of smokiness, stir in some roasted red peppers. For a heartier option, add crumbled cooked sausage or diced chicken to your dish.

Adjust the Consistency: Depending on how you’re using your leftover pesto, you may want to adjust the consistency. For a spreadable consistency, thin it out with a little olive oil or even a splash of cream cheese. For a chunky topping, use it straight from the jar.

Think Beyond Italian: While pesto has Italian roots, its versatility allows it to shine in various cuisines. Use it as a marinade for grilled fish or shrimp, or stir it into a creamy tomato bisque for a touch of herbaceous flavor.

Leftover pesto doesn’t have to be a one-trick pony. With a little creativity, you can transform this flavorful sauce into countless culinary adventures. So next time you find yourself with a leftover jar of Simply Nonno’s Pesto, unleash your inner chef and explore the endless possibilities of pesto!

Beyond The Pasta Bowl: Fun Ways To Use Leftover Pesto