Store-Bought Pesto Taste Test & Delicious Recipes Using Pesto

Pesto, that vibrant green sauce hailing from Genoa, Italy, is a culinary workhorse. Traditionally made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor to pasta, sandwiches, pizzas, and so much more. But let’s be honest, making pesto from scratch can be time-consuming. That’s where store-bought pesto comes in – a convenient shortcut to deliciousness. But with so many brands vying for shelf space, which one reigns supreme? And more importantly, how can you use it to create incredible meals?

This article tackles both of those questions. We’ll dive into a comprehensive taste test of popular store-bought pesto brands, evaluating them on flavor, texture, aroma, and overall quality. Then, we’ll explore a treasure trove of recipes that showcase the versatility of pesto, proving that even store-bought pesto can elevate your cooking to new heights.

## The Great Store-Bought Pesto Taste Test

Before we unleash the recipes, let’s determine which pesto is worthy of gracing your pantry. We gathered a selection of widely available store-bought pesto brands and put them to the test. Our panel of tasters included both pesto aficionados and casual consumers, ensuring a balanced perspective. Each pesto was evaluated based on the following criteria:

* **Flavor:** Does it have a bright, basil-forward flavor? Is the garlic balanced? Are the nuts present but not overpowering? Is it overly salty or bitter?
* **Texture:** Is it smooth and creamy, or chunky and uneven? Is it too oily or dry?
* **Aroma:** Does it have a fresh, inviting basil scent? Are there any off-putting or artificial smells?
* **Ingredients:** What ingredients are used? Are they high-quality? Does it contain unnecessary additives or preservatives?
* **Overall Impression:** Would we buy this pesto again? How well does it mimic the flavor of homemade pesto?

**The Contenders:**

* **Barilla Pesto Genovese:** A widely available brand known for its affordability.
* **Classico Signature Recipes Pesto:** Another popular option found in most supermarkets.
* **Kirkland Signature (Costco) Pesto:** A bulk option known for its value.
* **Rao’s Homemade Pesto:** A premium brand often praised for its quality ingredients.
* **Buitoni Pesto with Basil:** A refrigerated option found in the fresh pasta section.
* **Trader Joe’s Pesto Alla Genovese:** A popular choice known for its distinctive flavor.

**The Results:**

While taste is subjective, here’s a general overview of our findings:

* **Rao’s Homemade Pesto:** This pesto consistently ranked highest among our tasters. It boasted a vibrant basil flavor, a smooth and creamy texture, and a pleasant aroma. The ingredients tasted fresh and high-quality, and it closely resembled homemade pesto. However, it’s also one of the more expensive options.
* **Trader Joe’s Pesto Alla Genovese:** Trader Joe’s pesto received mixed reviews. Some tasters loved its bold, garlicky flavor, while others found it overpowering. Its texture was slightly coarser than Rao’s, but still acceptable. It’s a good option for those who prefer a more intense pesto flavor, and the price point is reasonable.
* **Buitoni Pesto with Basil:** This refrigerated pesto offered a fresher flavor compared to the shelf-stable options. The basil taste was prominent, and the texture was smooth. However, it tended to be a bit oily. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a fresher alternative to shelf-stable pesto.
* **Kirkland Signature (Costco) Pesto:** The Kirkland pesto offered good value for its size. However, the flavor was somewhat muted compared to the other brands. It lacked the bright basil punch and had a slightly bitter aftertaste. The texture was also a bit grainy. It’s a decent option if you need a large quantity of pesto and aren’t too concerned about nuanced flavor.
* **Barilla Pesto Genovese:** Barilla’s pesto was the most affordable option, but it also ranked lowest in terms of flavor. It lacked the fresh basil aroma and tasted somewhat artificial. The texture was also a bit thin and watery. It’s a budget-friendly option, but not the best choice for those seeking authentic pesto flavor.
* **Classico Signature Recipes Pesto:** Classico fell somewhere in the middle. The flavor was acceptable, but not particularly memorable. The texture was smooth, but a bit bland. It’s a decent option if you’re looking for a readily available and moderately priced pesto.

**The Verdict:**

For the best overall flavor and quality, **Rao’s Homemade Pesto** is our top pick. If you’re looking for a bolder, more garlicky flavor and a more budget-friendly option, **Trader Joe’s Pesto Alla Genovese** is a solid choice. And if you want a fresher taste than the shelf-stable options, consider **Buitoni Pesto with Basil**. Ultimately, the best pesto for you depends on your personal preferences and budget.

## Elevating Store-Bought Pesto: Tips and Tricks

Even the best store-bought pesto can benefit from a little doctoring. Here are a few tips to enhance its flavor:

* **Add Fresh Basil:** Stir in a handful of chopped fresh basil to boost the basil flavor.
* **Grate Fresh Parmesan:** Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, more complex flavor.
* **Toast Pine Nuts:** Toast pine nuts in a dry pan until golden brown and fragrant, then chop them and add them to the pesto.
* **Add a Squeeze of Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor and adds a touch of acidity.
* **Mix in Garlic:** Grate or mince a clove of fresh garlic for an extra kick.
* **Adjust the Consistency:** If the pesto is too thick, add a little olive oil or pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, add more Parmesan cheese or pine nuts.

## Delicious Recipes Featuring Store-Bought Pesto

Now that you know which pesto to buy (and how to make it even better), let’s explore some mouthwatering recipes that showcase its versatility:

### 1. Pesto Pasta

This is the classic pesto recipe for a reason – it’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
* 1/2 cup store-bought pesto
* 1/4 cup pasta water, reserved
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or shrimp

**Instructions:**

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, and 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water. Toss to coat.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and toss again.
4. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan cheese and optional toppings like cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or shrimp.

**Tips & Variations:**
* **Type of Pasta:** The choice of pasta is yours. Long strands like spaghetti or linguine work well, as do penne or rotini.
* **Add Veggies:** Toss in some roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.
* **Protein Power:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a more substantial meal.
* **Creamy Pesto:** For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese.

### 2. Pesto Chicken Sandwiches

These sandwiches are a flavorful and easy lunch or dinner option.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 chicken breasts
* 1/4 cup store-bought pesto
* 4 sandwich rolls
* 4 slices mozzarella cheese
* Lettuce and tomato slices (optional)
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and grill or pan-fry until cooked through.
3. Spread pesto on both sides of the sandwich rolls.
4. Place a chicken breast on the bottom half of each roll.
5. Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese, lettuce, and tomato slices (if using).
6. Cover with the top half of the roll and serve immediately.

**Tips & Variations:**
* **Marinade Magic:** Marinate the chicken breasts in pesto for at least 30 minutes before cooking for even more flavor.
* **Cheese Choices:** Substitute mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or your favorite cheese.
* **Spread it out:** Add roasted red pepper spread for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Bread Options:** Use ciabatta rolls, focaccia, or even croissants for a different twist.

### 3. Pesto Pizza

A pesto base adds a unique and delicious twist to homemade pizza.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pizza dough
* 1/2 cup store-bought pesto
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* Toppings of your choice (such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, olives, and pepperoni)
* Olive oil

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
3. Brush the dough with olive oil.
4. Spread pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
5. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Add your desired toppings.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

**Tips & Variations:**
* **Crust Creations:** Experiment with different types of pizza dough, such as thin crust, thick crust, or even cauliflower crust.
* **Veggie Variety:** Load up on your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
* **Protein Powerhouse:** Add cooked sausage, pepperoni, or grilled chicken for a heartier pizza.
* **Cheese Please:** Use a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone.

### 4. Pesto Shrimp Skewers

A quick and easy appetizer or light meal, perfect for grilling or baking.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1/4 cup store-bought pesto
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine the shrimp, pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
2. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers.
3. Grill or bake the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
4. Serve immediately.

**Tips & Variations:**
* **Veggie Skewers:** Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skewers for added flavor and color.
* **Spicy Shrimp:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture for a little heat.
* **Herb it up:** Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or oregano.
* **Marinade Time:** Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes before grilling for extra flavor.

### 5. Pesto Hummus

This vibrant twist on traditional hummus is perfect for dipping vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* 1/4 cup store-bought pesto
* 2 tablespoons tahini
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: pine nuts and paprika for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, pesto, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Process until smooth and creamy, adding water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with pine nuts and paprika (if using).
5. Serve with vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.

**Tips & Variations:**
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest for extra citrus notes.
* **Bean There, Done That:** Experiment with different types of beans, such as white beans or black beans.
* **Roast Garlic:** Roast the garlic before adding it to the hummus for a milder, sweeter flavor.

### 6. Pesto Eggs

An easy and flavorful way to upgrade your scrambled eggs. Simply whisk a spoonful of pesto into your eggs before cooking.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 large eggs
* 1 tablespoon store-bought pesto
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Butter or olive oil for cooking
* Optional: grated Parmesan cheese

**Instructions:**

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, pesto, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat butter or olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set to your liking.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).

**Tips & Variations:**
* **Cheese Choices:** Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese for extra flavor and creaminess.
* **Veggie Power:** Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for added nutrients.
* **Herb it up:** Add a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley.
* **Spice it up:** Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

### 7. Pesto Mashed Potatoes

A flavorful and comforting twist on classic mashed potatoes.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1/2 cup milk or cream
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup store-bought pesto
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Mash the potatoes until smooth.
4. Add the milk or cream, butter, and pesto. Stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.

**Tips & Variations:**
* **Garlic Goodness:** Add roasted garlic for a deeper, more complex flavor.
* **Cheese Please:** Stir in Parmesan, Asiago, or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
* **Herb it up:** Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives for a fragrant finish.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.

## Conclusion

Store-bought pesto can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you simply don’t have the time to make it from scratch. While the flavor may not be quite as vibrant as homemade pesto, with the right brand and a few simple enhancements, you can create incredibly delicious and satisfying meals. So, experiment with our taste test results, try our tips for elevating store-bought pesto, and unleash your culinary creativity with these versatile recipes. Happy cooking!