12 best pesto sauces

Pesto sauce is a popular Italian sauce known for its vibrant flavor and versatility. It falls under the category of Sauces, Sauces Gravies Marinades, Pantry Staples, and can be found in the Grocery Gourmet Food section. Here's what you should know about pesto sauce:

  1. Ingredients:

    • Traditional pesto sauce is made from a few key ingredients: fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
    • These ingredients are combined to create a thick, green sauce with a rich and savory flavor.
  2. Flavor Profile:

    • Pesto sauce has a bold, herbaceous, and nutty flavor profile. The basil provides a fresh and aromatic quality, while the garlic and cheeses add depth and richness.
    • Pine nuts contribute a mild, nutty taste and a creamy texture when blended.
  3. Texture:

    • Pesto sauce has a thick and slightly grainy texture due to the ground nuts and cheese. It's not a smooth sauce but has a pleasing consistency.
  4. Uses:

    • Pesto sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications.
    • It is most commonly used as a pasta sauce, where it can be tossed with cooked pasta to create a quick and flavorful meal.
    • Pesto can also be used as a spread for sandwiches, a dip for bread or vegetables, a topping for grilled chicken or fish, and a drizzle over roasted vegetables or salads.
  5. Variations:

    • While the traditional Genovese pesto is the most well-known, there are numerous regional and creative variations. These may include ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, arugula, or different types of nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds).
    • Vegan versions of pesto may omit the cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
  6. Preparation:

    • Pesto sauce is typically made by blending the ingredients together in a food processor or blender until a consistent texture is achieved.
    • It's important to use high-quality, fresh ingredients to produce the best flavor.
  7. Storage:

    • Pesto sauce is sensitive to oxidation, which can cause it to darken over time. To preserve its vibrant green color, store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to create a seal.
    • Refrigeration can help extend its shelf life.
  8. Culinary Creativity:

    • Pesto sauce encourages culinary creativity. You can experiment with different herbs, nuts, and cheeses to create your unique pesto variations to suit your taste preferences.

Pesto sauce is a beloved Italian condiment celebrated for its robust flavor and versatility in the kitchen. Whether used as a pasta sauce, a dip, or a flavor enhancer for various dishes, pesto can elevate a wide range of culinary creations with its distinctive taste.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best pesto sauces on the market
  

Classico Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce & Spread (8.1 oz Jar)

CLASSICO

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce & Spread offers authentic Italian flavors in a versatile ready to use sauce and spread. Made with fresh ingredients, this pesto spread offers a delicious combination of basil and Parmesan cheese that goes well on anything. Now, make mouthwatering pasta dishes, sandwiches and other recipes with the authentic Italian style taste of this pesto sauce. Add this pesto pasta sauce to hot pasta for a unique flavor, or use it as a topping for main dishes to make pesto chicken or pesto salmon. It's just as delicious on a pesto pizza, as a basil pesto cracker spread or as a topping for Italian bread. This 8.1 ounce resealable jar of Italian style basil pesto spread should be stored in the refrigerator after opening.

  • One 8.1 oz. jar of Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce & Spread
  • Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce & Spread is a versatile ready to use sauce
  • Combination of basil and Parmesan cheese for a classic flavor
  • Mix with hot pasta or use as a spread on crackers, meat or pizza
  • This inspired Italian style pasta sauce can be used on pesto pizza
  • Packaged in a resealable jar
  • Refrigerate after opening

User questions & answers

Question: What is the Sell Buy or Expiration date
Answer: When I receive it the expiration date was 1y
Question: Is this made with rennet
Answer: The ingredients do no list rennet.
Question: Is this pesto Keto-friendly
Answer: Yes, but this is my opinion. Run the product by your dietician to be certain.
Question: what is the full ingredients list
Answer: basil,soybean oil,garlic,parmesan cheese,,olive oil,salt, lactic acid, citric acid.

Product features

Classico Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce

The Genoan's made the pesto, crushed from fresh basil, olive oil and garlic. Enjoy the same traditional recipe at home with Classico Basil Pesto.

Classico Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce (14 oz Jar)

Kraft US (0044710044602)

Based on 121 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce and Spread offers authentic Italian flavors in a versatile ready to use sauce and spread. Made with fresh ingredients, this pesto spread offers a delicious combination of basil and Romano cheese that goes well on anything. Now, make mouthwatering pasta dishes, sandwiches and other recipes with the authentic Italian style taste of this pesto sauce. Add this pesto pasta sauce to hot pasta for a unique flavor, or use it as a topping for main dishes to make pesto chicken or pesto salmon. It's just as delicious on a pesto pizza, as a basil pesto cracker spread or as a topping for Italian bread. This 13.5 ounce resealable jar of Italian style basil pesto spread should be stored in the refrigerator after opening.

  • One 13.5 oz. jar of Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce and Spread
  • Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce and Spread is a versatile ready to use sauce
  • Combination of basil and Romano cheese for a classic flavor
  • Mix with hot pasta or use as a spread on crackers, meat or pizza
  • This inspired Italian style pasta sauce can be used on pesto pizza

Compagnia Sanremo Pesto DOP Basil Pesto, 6.5 oz

Compagnia Sanremo Pesto

Based on 209 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Basil Pesto is made with Genovese basil D.O.P. Intensely fragrant. This authentic Italian pesto also contains EVOO, cashew nuts, Grana Padano D.O.P, Pecorino Romano D.O.P, pine nuts, garlic, and salt. This famous Italian sauce is served with spaghetti, lasagna, and gnocchi.

  • Basil Pesto is made with Genovese basil D.O.P. Intensely fragrant
  • This authentic Italian Pesto contains Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cashew nuts, pine nuts, and salt
  • This famous Italian sauce is served with spaghetti, lasagna, and gnocchi

User questions & answers

Question: can we use it on pizza base
Answer: Sure you can.
Question: What is the percentage of basil content
Answer: I'm not sure about the percentage of basil. I do not have a bottle right now. It is good. But I would like more basil flavor. It seemed a little bland to me. When I make my own I put in a ton of basil and garlic. So it could just be my preference. But it is a good quality jarred pesto.
Question: is this vegan
Answer: No - It contains cheese. It is vegetarian, NOT vegan.

Product features

Classic Basil Pesto

Our Basil Pesto is an excellent versatile spread that is ready to use. Its combination of ingredients offers a delicious flavor to any food. It goes well on pasta, lasagna, and gnocchi to offer a traditional Italian flavor. Pesto can be used on different types of dishes too like pesto chicken or pesto salmon. Our pesto is even great for pesto pizza which is becoming a popular flavor for pizza lovers. Our 6.5oz bottle of pesto serves as a sauce or spread to so many of your favorite foods.

Seggiano, Fresh Basil Pesto, 7 oz

Seggiano

Based on 684 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our pesto is made from the tender top leaves of fresh ligurian basil, grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. The leaves are preserved in olive oil within hours of handpicking, to capture their amazing flavor.

  • Brought to you by Whole Foods Market
  • Real food from Italy

User questions & answers

Question: Is this price for two jars or one
Answer: One
Question: On seggiano's website they don't sell this pesto, only a similar one but made with evoo. this product isn't made with evoo, though, is it? ugh
Answer: I believe this is the same pesto as the "raw basil pesto" on their website. The ingredients are the same, the olive oil is not specified, so I would assume it is the same EVOO though you would think they would advertise it as such. The basil is the same as Ligurian and Genoese are the same. I am curious what is wrong with using evoo in pesto?
Question: what are the fat and salt levels
Answer: Sodium: 570 mg. Fat 34 grams
Question: Is the lid supposed to make a popping sound when the jar is first opened
Answer: I have gone through 2 jars of this and mine both did make a popping sound when first opened.

BTN PESTO W/BASIL 7OZ

Nestle Refridgerated AmazonFresh

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

BUITONI Pesto with Basil is a refrigerated Italian-style classic pasta sauce, made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese and extra-virgin olive oil. Inspired by our home at Casa BUITONI in Sansepolcro, Italy, we believe that simple, high-quality ingredients are all you need to create a foundation of great taste and flavor, one that lets you pour your creativity in. All BUITONI pasta and sauce products are made with the highest quality, no GMO ingredients (SGS verified the Nestle process for manufacturing these products with no GMO ingredients). Balance your plate with a salad and great company!

  • BUITONI Pesto with basil, a pine nut and walnut blend, and extra-virgin olive oil
  • Made fresh with only the finest-quality, non-GMO ingredients
  • SGS verified the Nestle process for manufacturing this product with no GMO ingredients (sgs.com/no-gmo)
  • Package contains approximately 3 servings
  • Bring to room temperature for serving. Pesto is versatile and tastes great on pasta, sandwiches or salads

User questions & answers

Question: is this vegan
Answer: Thanks for showing an interest in our Pesto. This item is not certified as vegan. If you need additional assistance, please text us at (800) 727-0050.
Question: Is the parmasean cheese used vegetarian
Answer: This item is not certified as vegetarian, which would include the ingredients.

Product features

BUITONI Pesto with Basil

Inspired by our home at Casa BUITONI in Sansepolcro, Italy, we believe that simple, high-quality ingredients are all you need to create a foundation of great taste and flavor, one that lets you pour your creativity in. All BUITONI pasta and sauce products are made with the highest quality, no GMO ingredients (SGS verified the Nestle process for manufacturing these products with no GMO ingredients). Balance your plate with a salad and great company!

Made Fresh With High-Quality Ingredients

Our high-quality ingredients bring out the pasta lover in everyone.

Easy to Make

Simply bring to room temperature and mix into your meal. Cooking with pesto couldn't be easier.

Explore Your Creativity

BUITONI sauces make a great complement to pastas, sandwiches and salads.

Plenty to Share

BUITONI sauces are available in small and large sizes, so you're covered no matter what size dinner you're making.

Pesto Pasta Salad With Heirloom Tomatoes and Chicken

1 package BUITONI Refrigerated Mixed Cheese Tortellini (20 oz.)

2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes

1 cup grilled chicken breast strips

3 tablespoons BUITONI Refrigerated Pesto with Basil (7 oz.)

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

PREPARE pasta according to package directions. Drain; rinse in cold water to cool. Place in a large bowl. Add tomatoes and chicken.

WHISK pesto and vinegar in a small bowl. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to combine. Season with fresh cracked black pepper, if desired.

365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Basil Pesto, 6.5 Ounce

365

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our standards are what set us apart, and our quality is what keeps us stocking pantries, fridges and freezers with the best natural and organic 365 Everyday Value products every day. We get excited about things like whole grain flours, shade-grown coffee, organic milk and frozen veggies because we know that you care about cooking with the very best ingredients — without compromising on the ingredients you don’t want. All 365 Everyday Value products meet Whole Foods Market quality standards.

  • Brought to you by Whole Foods Market.  The packaging for this product has a fresh new look. During this transition, you may get the original packaging or the new packaging in your order, but the product and quality is staying exactly the same. Enjoy!
  • Made with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
  • No sugar added.
  • Product of Italy.
  • Certified GMO-Free.

User questions & answers

Question: where does it say its organic on the jar
Answer: Looked at packaging. It is labeled non GMO. But it doesn't say organic. Good ingredients but only non GMO, not organic.
Question: Can you list ingredients
Answer: No you must read the back and find information for yourself.
Question: Is this pasteurized
Answer: It’s all gone because it was delicious
Question: Is it heavy on the basil taste? Bought a different brand and I could taste was nothing but strong basil
Answer: Pretty yummy combination

Product features

Trusted Quality

Offering exceptional everyday values, these products are formulated to meet all of Whole Foods Market’s stringent quality standards.

Beyond Food

We believe that what goes on your body is as important as what goes in it. Did you know that there are more than 100 potentially harmful chemicals and other common ingredients that we don't allow?

Natural & Organic

365 Everyday Value products can fill your pantry with natural and organic products you can trust — without emptying your wallet.

Selection

From whole grain flours and shade-grown coffee to organic milk and frozen veggies, 365 Everyday Value makes it easy to stock up on the best products for the best price.

Gotham Greens Classic Pesto, 6.5 Oz

Gotham Greens

Based on 405 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our classic pesto is made with our own Genovese basil, extra virgin olive oil, Parmigiano and coarse sea salt. We are a fresh food company farming with the future In mind. We build and operate sustainable greenhouses in cities across America, where we grow our year-round supply of local produce. Local cultivation and regional distribution help us deliver our products quickly after being harvested to ensure they are fresh tasting, Nutritionally dense and long-lasting. Our farms are unconventional. But so is our commitment to taste, quality and sustainability.

  • Small batch
  • Gotham Greens Basil

User questions & answers

Question: how many servings per container ? What is the nutrional info
Answer: Serving size is 2oz. About 3.5 servings per container.

Green Pesto Alla Genovese by Legnano | Authentic Italian Basil Pesto | Vegan, Gluten-Free Pesto Sauce | Made in Tuscany | 2-Pack, 6.5 oz Jars

MONTALBANO USA Inc.

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price
  • VEGAN PESTO SAUCE Enjoy the bold, rich flavors of Italy in our authentic Italian Pesto Sauce. Emerald green basil, extra virgin Olive Oil, and pine nuts combine to produce a flavor that is deliciously, famously, Vegan Pesto Sauce!
  • PREMIUM INGREDIENTS Legnano’s Pesto Alla Genovese is made from only the best of Italy’s fine produce. We want the best for you, and our Pesto Sauce is Vegan, Gluten-Free, dairy-free, and made with non-GMO ingredients, delivering only pure richness of flavor! Pesto is shelf-stable, refrigerate after opening.
  • TASTE OF TUSCANY Imagine the sun-warmed slopes of Tuscany, fields of bright green basil, and a world-renowned culinary tradition. Our Basil Pesto is Made in Tuscany, bringing you the very best of Tuscan cuisine! Traditionally Pesto sauce is enjoyed over pasta - try it tossed with vegetables, or as a dip, spread, or marinade.
  • GOURMET FLAVORS We won’t sacrifice taste or health in our premium Vegan Pesto, and this is a product you want on your shelf. Turn your dinner into a culinary masterpiece, show off your home-cooked Italian cuisine, and wow your friends with the transforming taste of our gourmet Pesto Sauce!
  • LEGNANO represents a passion for good food! With our focus on quality and taste, our rich heritage of crafting healthy, wholesome and delicious food dates back to 1965, Tuscany. Using traditional Tuscan family recipes, we’ve been selecting simple ingredients that combine to bring flavor, authenticity, and joy to the table ever since!

Knorr Pasta Sauce Mix Pesto 0.5 oz (Pack of 12)

Knorr

Based on 322 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Unilever Bestfoods Knorr Pasta Sauce Pesto - 0.5 ounce -- 12 Per Case Serving per Container: 3

  • Knorr Side Meal Pesto is a rich sauce with flavors of garlic, spinach, and onions.
  • Makes 1/2 cup of pasta sauce, cooks in 7 minutes
  • Enjoy rich flavor in minutes with Knorr's perfectly balanced, easy pasta sauces
  • Perfect sauce for easy dinner ideas

User questions & answers

Question: What is the expiration date on the lot currently for sale
Answer: GoGetDelivery is currently shipping May 02 2022
Question: What is the expiration date on this lot now?? Today is
Answer: Each order, each lot is different. My order will expire soon, but is okay now.
Question: Is this organic and gmo free
Answer: It doesn't say one way or the other. Perhaps one can assume that if the contents were, the manufacturer would tout those facts on the package... The list of ingredients is long and you can see it if you scroll down on the product page below "Product Details."
Question: How many calories
Answer: There are three servings per packet and 15 calories preserving, but that doesn't include the calories in the olive oil. The directions call for 1/4 cup olive oil so you need to look up the calories for the oil and add the 45 for the packet. Divide by 3 and you have the Toal calories per prepared serving. Hope this helps.

Bear Pond Farm, Pesto 3 Greens, 6.5 Ounce

Bear Pond Farm

Based on 126 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Bear Pond Farm 3 Greens Pesto blends arugula and certified organic spinach and basil with organic seeds, organic miso and spices to create an award-winning taste. Dairy free and gluten free. Great as a topping in Buddha or Nourish bowls, topping pasta, and as a smear on toast or as a dip for chips. See what the buzz is about! Featuring a certified organic non-GMO oil blend. These amazing pestos are nut-free, though made in a facility that does process pecans and walnuts. Use some; freeze the rest-no waste. Out of the freezer, microwave on low power with lid ajar to thaw. May be frozen. Keep refrigerated.

  • Bear Pond Farm 3 Greens Pesto is certified vegan by Vegan Action.
  • Made with organic herbs and ingredients, non-GMO organic oil blend. Nut-free and gluten-free.
  • Keep refrigerated. Top pasta and pizza; sauce a sandwich.

PESTO RUSTIC BASIL 6.5OZ

Barilla

Based on 609 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Originally from Genoa, Italy, traditional Basil Pesto sauces have a delicious taste and texture Made possible with a blend of flavorful ingredients like basil, cheese, nuts, and oil. Enjoy our take on this Italian favorite!

  • Made with high quality ingredients like freshly grated Italian cheeses infused with oil for a clean taste that perfectly balances the chunky texture of finely diced ingredients imported from Italy
  • The package length of the product is 2.48 inches
  • The package width of the product is 5.196 inches
  • The package height of the product is 3.818 inches

User questions & answers

Question: Why is this item $14.99 when i purchased the exact same item in the store 2 weeks ago for $2.99. that is price gouging and illegal in ca
Answer: I might be able to help shed some light on that. There are some products on here that are for shopper convenience and not for a price advantage. For us to ship to CA it costs around $12, pretty much at minimum. Plus there is a fee to list it. We always try to offer the best deal, but sometimes we sell things that are what customers want and would rather have shipped even if it costs more. I hope this helps.

Product features

Made with fresh, flavorful ingredients

The Basil Pesto sauce from Barilla has a traditional taste and texture that is achieved when finely diced ingredients are infused in oil. It is made with a blend of flavorful ingredients like basil, cheese, nuts, and oil. When combined with freshly grated, premium Italian cheeses, like Grana Padano and Pecorino Romano, it makes all your pasta recipes sing with a rich, nutty flavor.

Mezzetta Sauce - Basil Pesto - Case of 6 - 6.25 Fl oz.

Mezzetta

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mezzetta Sauce - Basil Pesto - Case of 6 - 6.25 Fl oz.

  • SUACE, BASIL PESTO

User questions & answers

Question: Can someone please list all ingredients
Answer: Sure. This is the best sauce you can buy and it’s hard for me to find in stores. Amazon has this though. 1st ingredient is extra virgin Olive oil. That sold me as don’t want canola or any other gmos in my sauce. Next is fresh basil then Parmesan cheese almonds sea salt garlic and pine nuts. If u make this yourself those are the the same ingredients I would use.

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