Store-bought pesto is a convenient and delicious way to add vibrant flavor to a variety of dishes, especially pasta. While homemade pesto is always an option, the convenience of store-bought pesto makes it a go-to for busy weeknights. This article will explore how to use store-bought pesto with pasta, offering tips, recipes, and techniques to make the most out of this versatile sauce.
Understanding Pesto: What Is It?
Pesto is a traditional Italian sauce originating from Genoa. The classic version, known as Pesto alla Genovese, is made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. These ingredients are blended together to create a smooth, green sauce that’s bursting with flavor. While pesto is most commonly associated with pasta, it’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes. However, our focus here is on how to use store-bought pesto with pasta.
1. Choosing the Right Store-Bought Pesto
Not all store-bought pesto is created equal. The quality can vary significantly between brands, so it’s important to choose a pesto that’s made with high-quality ingredients. Look for a pesto that lists basil, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese among the first ingredients. Avoid brands that use fillers or excessive preservatives.
- Tip: If you’re looking for recommendations, explore different brands through user reviews on Reddit. The Buffalo Chicken Casserole with Pasta article provides insights into user-preferred brands that pair well with pasta dishes.
2. Pairing Pesto with the Right Pasta
The type of pasta you use with pesto can greatly influence the overall dish. Pesto pairs best with pasta shapes that can hold onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Best Pasta Shapes for Pesto:
- Trofie: A traditional Ligurian pasta that is perfect for pesto due to its twisted shape.
- Fusilli: The corkscrew shape of fusilli is ideal for holding pesto in its grooves.
- Penne: The ridges on penne allow the pesto to cling to the pasta, making it a great choice.
- Spaghetti: While not as effective at holding the sauce, spaghetti still pairs well with pesto.
For more pasta pairings, check out our Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Casserole for other creative ideas.
3. Preparing Your Pasta
To get the most out of store-bought pesto, it’s important to prepare your pasta properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Step 1: Salt the Water: Before adding your pasta, make sure the water is heavily salted. This is your only chance to season the pasta itself, and it helps enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Step 2: Cook Until Al Dente: Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but start checking the pasta a minute or two earlier. Al dente pasta has a firmer texture that pairs well with pesto.
- Step 3: Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water. This can be added to the pesto to help it adhere to the pasta and create a smoother sauce.
For more tips on pasta preparation, consider reading our article on Chicken Pasta Casserole Dishes, where you can find additional cooking tips.
4. Mixing Pasta with Pesto
Once your pasta is cooked, it’s time to mix it with the pesto. This step is crucial to ensure the sauce coats the pasta evenly and thoroughly.
- Step 1: Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with a generous amount of pesto. Start with a few tablespoons and add more to taste.
- Step 2: Add Pasta Water: Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, while tossing the pasta. This helps to thin the pesto and create a creamy consistency that clings to the pasta.
- Step 3: Toss and Serve: Toss the pasta until it’s well coated with the pesto. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
If you’re looking for more creative ways to use pesto, check out our Crock-Pot Pesto Chicken Pasta Casserole for inspiration.
5. Enhancing Store-Bought Pesto
While store-bought pesto is convenient, there are ways to enhance its flavor to make it taste even better. Here are a few tips:
- Add Fresh Basil: Fresh basil can brighten up the flavor of store-bought pesto. Simply chop some basil leaves and stir them into the pesto before mixing with pasta.
- Incorporate Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic can add a sharper flavor that’s often lacking in store-bought pesto. Grate a small clove of garlic and mix it into the pesto.
- Stir in Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the basil and garlic in pesto. You can also use walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
For more ideas on enhancing store-bought sauces, take a look at our Chicken Broccoli Pasta Casserole, where similar tips are applied to other dishes.
6. Pesto Pasta Variations
Pesto pasta doesn’t have to be just pasta and sauce. There are numerous variations you can try to make the dish more interesting and nutritious.
A. Pesto Pasta with Vegetables
Adding vegetables to your pesto pasta not only adds color and texture but also increases the nutritional value of the dish.
- Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes: Sauté zucchini and cherry tomatoes in olive oil until tender, then toss with the pesto pasta. The vegetables add sweetness and a slight crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich pesto.
- Spinach and Peas: Stir in fresh spinach and peas during the last minute of pasta cooking. The heat from the pasta will wilt the spinach and cook the peas just enough.
B. Pesto Pasta with Protein
Adding protein to your pesto pasta can turn it into a more substantial meal.
- Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken pairs perfectly with pesto pasta. Slice the chicken and toss it with the pasta for a satisfying meal.
- Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in garlic and butter, then toss with the pesto pasta. The shrimp adds a delicate seafood flavor that complements the pesto.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, marinate tofu in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, then sauté until golden. Toss with the pesto pasta for a protein-packed dish.
For more ideas on incorporating protein into pasta dishes, refer to our Meatball Pasta Casserole for delicious variations.
7. Serving Suggestions
Pesto pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways depending on the occasion.
A. As a Main Course
Pesto pasta can easily stand on its own as a main course, especially when combined with vegetables or protein. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
B. As a Side Dish
Pesto pasta also makes a great side dish for grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables. Its bold flavor can complement a variety of main courses without overpowering them.
- Tip: For a perfect pairing, consider serving pesto pasta alongside our Pizza Casserole with Pasta, creating a well-rounded meal with diverse flavors.
8. Pesto Pasta for Meal Prep
Pesto pasta is an excellent option for meal prep because it stores well and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Here’s how to prepare and store pesto pasta for the week:
- Prepare in Batches: Cook a large batch of pesto pasta at the beginning of the week. Divide it into individual portions and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Reheat with Care: When reheating pesto pasta, it’s important to do so gently to avoid drying out the sauce. Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, on low power. Add a splash of water or olive oil to help refresh the sauce.
- Enjoy Cold: Pesto pasta can also be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad. Toss with additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a refreshing lunch option.
For more tips on meal prep, read our guide on Reheat Chicken Broccoli Bake, which includes methods for storing and reheating pasta dishes.
9. Pairing Pesto Pasta with Wine
Pairing pesto pasta with the right wine can elevate your dining experience. The herbal and garlicky notes of pesto pair best with light, crisp wines.
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the fresh basil and garlic in pesto. These wines have a slight acidity that balances the richness of the pesto.
- Rosé: A dry Rosé offers a nice balance of acidity and fruitiness that pairs well with pesto pasta, especially if the dish includes chicken or seafood.
- Red Wine: If you prefer red wine, opt for a light-bodied wine like a Chianti or Pinot Noir. These wines have enough acidity to complement the pesto without overpowering it.
For more wine pairing ideas, check out our Is Chicken and Broccoli Enough? article, which includes tips on pairing wines with different meals.
10. Troubleshooting Pesto Pasta
Even with the best intentions, sometimes things can go wrong when making pesto pasta. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
- Too Thick: If your pesto sauce is too thick, add more pasta water or olive oil to thin it out. Add a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Too Bland: If the pesto tastes bland, it may need more salt, garlic, or Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Too Oily: If the pesto is too oily, balance it out by adding more Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice. This will help cut through the richness and add brightness to the sauce.
For more troubleshooting tips on pasta dishes, refer to our How to Brown Chicken Before Using a Crock Pot guide.
Conclusion: Enjoying Pesto Pasta to the Fullest
Using store-bought pesto with pasta is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish. Whether you’re enhancing the pesto with fresh ingredients, adding vegetables or protein, or pairing it with the perfect wine, there are countless ways to elevate your pesto pasta. With these tips and ideas, you’ll never run out of inspiration for how to use store-bought pesto with pasta.
For more creative cooking ideas and recipes, be sure to explore our How to Use Pesto Other Than Pasta guide, where you can learn even more ways to incorporate pesto into your meals.