20 Delicious Pesto Recipes Everyone Will Want to Try

Pesto is one of those magic ingredients that instantly elevates any dish, and this roundup shows just how versatile it can be. From bright basil blends to nutty walnut versions and easy weeknight meals, these recipes are full of fresh flavor and simple steps. Whether you’re whipping up pasta, roasting veggies, or adding a herby punch to chicken or fish, this collection is all about easy ways to make your meals more vibrant, satisfying, and delicious.

Basil Pesto

Fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil blend into a fragrant, green sauce. The flavor is bright and herb forward. It works on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Its versatility makes it a staple in many kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Basil Pesto

20-Minute Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken with Charred Tomatoes and Avocado

Chicken is marinated with pesto for bold flavor. Grilled tomatoes add sweetness and smoky notes. Avocado provides creamy balance. It is quick to make yet feels satisfying.
Get the Recipe: 20-Minute Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken with Charred Tomatoes and Avocado

Pesto Pasta Salad

Cooked pasta is tossed with fresh pesto. Additional vegetables or cheese can add texture. Served cold, it is refreshing and herbaceous. It holds well for lunches or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta Salad

10-Minute Oregano Pesto Recipe

Oregano takes center stage for a fragrant and slightly earthy pesto. Olive oil and nuts add richness. It comes together quickly for weeknight meals. It pairs well with pasta, grains, or roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: 10-Minute Oregano Pesto Recipe

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo pasta is coated with pesto and mixed with vegetables. The small pasta shape absorbs the flavors well. It is light, flavorful, and portable. Perfect for picnics or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb

Lamb is stuffed with a mixture of pesto and tart cranberries. The flavors are savory, herbaceous, and slightly sweet. Cooking locks in juices and aroma. It’s impressive for a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb

Zucchini Pesto

Thinly sliced or spiralized zucchini is tossed with pesto. It can be served raw or lightly cooked. The dish is fresh and flavorful. It works as a side or light main.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Pesto

Pesto Rice

Cooked rice is mixed with pesto for an herby, aromatic base. It pairs with meats, seafood, or vegetables. Simple ingredients create a flavorful side. It’s versatile and quick.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Rice

Authentic Italian Basil Pesto – Pesto Genovese

This traditional recipe emphasizes fresh basil and pine nuts. Olive oil and Parmesan round out the flavor. It stays fragrant and vibrant. It can be used on pasta, pizza, or roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Italian Basil Pesto – Pesto Genovese

Baked Pesto Salmon

Salmon fillets are topped with pesto and baked until tender. The herbs infuse the fish with flavor. Cooking keeps the salmon moist. It’s simple yet elegant.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Creamy Pesto Spaghetti Squash Noodles

Roasted spaghetti squash strands are tossed with a creamy pesto sauce. The texture is tender yet slightly firm. Cream adds richness without overpowering the herbs. It works as a light, comforting main.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pesto Spaghetti Squash Noodles

Juicy Chicken Pesto Meatballs – Kid-Friendly & Delicious

Ground chicken is flavored with pesto and formed into meatballs. Baking keeps them moist. The herbaceous flavor makes them appealing to kids and adults. They pair well with pasta or dipping sauces.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Chicken Pesto Meatballs – Kid-Friendly & Delicious

Radish Greens Pesto

Radish greens are blended into a bright, slightly peppery pesto. Olive oil and nuts balance the flavors. It works as a spread, pasta sauce, or grain topping. It’s a creative way to reduce food waste.
Get the Recipe: Radish Greens Pesto

Pesto Pasta alla Trapanese

A Sicilian twist on pesto features almonds and cherry tomatoes. The sauce is fresh, nutty, and slightly sweet. Tossed with pasta, it highlights regional flavors. The result is fragrant and colorful.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta alla Trapanese

Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

Classic Bolognese is paired with herbaceous pesto. The pesto cuts through the richness of the meat sauce. Fettuccini provides a wide noodle to hold flavor. Each bite is savory and layered.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

Pesto Tortellini Salad

Cheese or meat tortellini is tossed with pesto. Additional vegetables or cheese can enhance texture. Served cold or at room temperature, it is flavorful and portable. It makes a great side or main dish.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad

Walnut Pesto Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Walnuts replace pine nuts for a deeper, earthier flavor. Roasted vegetables add sweetness and texture. Tossed with pasta and pesto, it’s hearty and colorful. It can be served warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Walnut Pesto Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Broccoli Pesto

Steamed or roasted broccoli is tossed with pesto. The greens absorb the flavors while staying crisp. It works as a side dish or main with grains. It’s simple and vibrant.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto

Quick and Easy Oregano Pesto Pasta

Pasta is tossed with a fast oregano pesto. The sauce is fresh and slightly earthy. It’s ready in minutes for a weeknight meal. Optional toppings can add crunch or cheese.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Oregano Pesto Pasta

Vegan Pesto Sauce

This pesto omits cheese for a plant based version. Nuts, garlic, and olive oil create flavor and richness. It works on pasta, grains, or roasted vegetables. It maintains bright, herbaceous notes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pesto Sauce