Are you wondering what to do with leftover pesto? Don’t let it go to waste! There are plenty of delicious ways to use up your leftover sauce, and we are here to help you find inspiration. Whether you have a small amount or a larger quantity, there are so many cooking options available. In this section, we will explore various creative ways to incorporate leftover pesto with every meal.
From traditional dishes to innovative ideas, we are confident you will find a recipe that suits your taste buds. We will share our favorite leftover pesto pasta recipe, explore how to add a burst of flavor onto your favorite chicken dishes, and illuminate new and creative ways to incorporate leftover pesto into salads, sandwiches, and more. Say goodbye to wasting your leftover pesto and embrace its many uses and possibilities.
Join us as we explore the many culinary options available for cooking with leftover pesto. Let’s dive into the world of this delicious sauce together!
Leftover Pesto Pasta: A Delicious Twist
If you have leftover pesto in your fridge, why not use it to add a burst of flavor to your favorite pasta dishes? Our leftover pesto pasta recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want something tasty. This recipe serves 4.
- 12 oz. pasta
- 1/2 cup leftover pesto
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, toast the pine nuts in a dry pan until golden brown.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add the leftover pesto and cherry tomatoes to the pot and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Divide the pasta into bowls and top with toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese.
Leftover pesto pasta is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. If you have any additional ingredients on hand, feel free to add them to the recipe. Some ideas include:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Roasted red peppers
- Spinach or kale
With these ideas, you can turn your leftover pesto pasta into a new and exciting dish every time you make it. Don’t let your leftover pesto go to waste – instead, use it to create delicious meals that the whole family will love.
Leftover Pesto Chicken: A Flavorful Combination
In this section, we will explore the wonderful combination of leftover pesto and chicken. If you have some leftover pesto and cooked chicken in your fridge, you’re in for a great meal. You can easily prepare a mouthwatering leftover pesto chicken recipe that will impress your family and guests.
To create this recipe, you will need:
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup of leftover pesto
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the leftover pesto chicken recipe, combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir until well mixed. Then, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!
But this is only the beginning of what you can do with leftover pesto and chicken. Other ways to use it include:
- Marinating chicken in leftover pesto before grilling or baking for added flavor.
- Using leftover pesto as a sauce for chicken pizzas or flatbreads.
- Adding leftover pesto to chicken salad for a gourmet twist.
With these ideas, you can easily transform your leftover pesto and chicken into delicious meals that your whole family will love!
Beyond Pasta and Chicken: Creative Uses for Leftover Pesto
Leftover pesto is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of creative ways. Take a break from the usual pasta and chicken dishes and try one of these innovative ideas:
Spread it on your sandwiches: Use leftover pesto as a spread on your sandwiches instead of mayonnaise or mustard. It will add a burst of flavor to your lunch and make your taste buds dance.
Use it as a dip: Combine leftover pesto with some cream cheese or yogurt to create a delicious dip for your vegetables or crackers. It’s a healthy and tasty snack that is perfect for any occasion.
Mix it in with your eggs: Add a spoonful of leftover pesto to your scrambled eggs for a unique breakfast experience. The pesto will infuse your eggs with flavor and make them even more delicious.
Add it to your soup: Stir leftover pesto into your favorite soup recipe to add depth and richness to the broth. It’s a quick and easy way to elevate your soup game.
Toss it with your roasted vegetables: Toss your roasted vegetables with leftover pesto to add a burst of flavor and color to your plate. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
No matter how you use it, leftover pesto can take your meals to the next level. Get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different combinations to discover your own pesto masterpieces!
Conclusion
Leftover pesto is no longer a problem with these creative ideas and recipes. By using your imagination, you can transform your leftover pesto into a variety of dishes that pack a punch of flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out new combinations to see what works best for you.
From delicious leftover pesto pasta to mouth-watering leftover pesto chicken, all the way to creative uses like pesto spreads and dips, there are endless possibilities. You can now enjoy your pesto delights without wasting a drop.
So go ahead and give these leftover pesto ideas a try. We hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful in making the most of your leftover pesto. Happy cooking!
FAQ
What can I do with leftover pesto?
There are many creative ways to use up your leftover pesto! You can use it as a spread on sandwiches, mix it into salad dressings or dips, toss it with roasted vegetables, stir it into scrambled eggs, or even flavor homemade pizza crust. The possibilities are endless!
Do you have any recipes using leftover pesto?
Yes, we have plenty! One delicious option is leftover pesto pasta. Just cook your favorite pasta according to the instructions, then toss it with your leftover pesto and any additional ingredients you desire, like cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, or grilled chicken. Another idea is leftover pesto chicken. Simply marinate your chicken in the pesto for a few hours, then bake or grill it until cooked through. It’s wonderfully flavorful!
How can I store leftover pesto?
To store your leftover pesto, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should keep well for up to a week. If you need to store it for longer, you can freeze it in ice cube trays or small containers, and then transfer the frozen cubes or portions to a freezer bag. This way, you can easily thaw and use smaller amounts whenever you need them.
What are some other creative uses for leftover pesto?
Besides pasta and chicken, there are many ways to get creative with your leftover pesto. You can swirl it into soups, use it as a topping for grilled fish or shrimp, mix it into mashed potatoes or risotto, or even spread it on a homemade pizza as a sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new flavor combinations!
Can you recommend any specific brands of pesto to use?
While there are many delicious brands of pesto out there, some popular options include Barilla, Classico, and DeLallo. However, if you have the time and ingredients, homemade pesto can be even more flavorful and customizable to your taste preferences. It’s worth trying both store-bought and homemade versions to see which you prefer.