Pesto is a versatile, flavorful sauce that can elevate any dish, from pasta and sandwiches to salads and more. With endless variations to explore, these 14 pesto recipes celebrate classic combinations and creative twists, ensuring there’s something for every taste.

Pesto Chicken and Vegetables

Pesto Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Juicy chicken and vibrant veggies come together in this dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. Tossed in a savory pesto sauce, it’s a healthy and satisfying option you’ll want to make again.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Chicken and Vegetables

Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This vibrant pasta salad is tossed with creamy pesto, fresh veggies, and your favorite pasta shape. It’s a fabulous dish for a light meal or to bring to your next gathering!
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta Salad

Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Pesto

Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Pesto. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Turn up the heat with this spicy take on classic pesto! Roasted jalapeños and cilantro pack a punch, making this sauce perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or dipping.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Jalapeno Cilantro Pesto

Tuna Pesto Pasta

A plate of tuna pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, a copper fork, and a pink linen next to a pan full of tuna pesto pasta.
Tuna Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Looking for an easy dinner staple? This tuna-pesto combination offers bold flavors paired with tender pasta. It’s comforting and so incredibly tasty!
Get the Recipe: Tuna Pesto Pasta

Pesto Salmon

Image shows Salmon with pesto and rice on a blue plate.
Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This dish features flaky salmon fillets coated in zesty pesto for a burst of delicious flavor in every bite. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Air fryer chicken pesto sandwich on a white plate.
Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, these air fryer chicken sandwiches get a flavor boost from a generous spread of pesto. Perfect for lunch or an easy dinner!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tiny orzo pasta combines with fresh, colorful veggies and basil pesto in this light and refreshing salad. It’s ideal for meal prep or as a quick side dish.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Baked Pesto Salmon

Salmon with spinach sauce on a white plate.
Baked Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Tender salmon meets the irresistible richness of baked-on pesto. This dish is elegant but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Two Pesto Chicken Pizza

Chicken Pizza loaded with Mozzarella on a tray.
Two Pesto Chicken Pizza. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Can’t decide between red and green pesto? Use both! This pizza combines vibrant dual pestos with juicy chicken for an indulgent yet easy homemade treat.
Get the Recipe: Two Pesto Chicken Pizza

Vegan Pesto Sauce

Homemade basil pesto in a glass jar surrounded by fresh basil leaves and a slice of lemon.
Vegan Pesto Sauce. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Who needs dairy to enjoy amazing pesto? This creamy, plant-based version is as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for dipping, spreading, and tossing!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pesto Sauce

Quick and Easy Oregano Pesto Pasta

Quick and Easy Oregano Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This speedy pasta dish features the earthy flavor of oregano mixed into pesto for a satisfying, herb-filled dinner you can make in no time.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Oregano Pesto Pasta

10-Minute Oregano Pesto Recipe

10-Minute Oregano Pesto Recipe. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Pressed for time? This oregano-fueled pesto recipe is here to save the day! Whip it up in just 10 minutes and use it on literally anything.
Get the Recipe: 10-Minute Oregano Pesto Recipe

Avocado Pesto Pasta

Avocado Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This creamy, dreamy pesto pasta swaps out the usual cheese for ripe avocado, creating a velvety sauce that’s wholesome and irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Pesto Pasta

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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