Creative ways to use frozen pesto
Having a stash of frozen pesto on hand is like having a culinary secret weapon in your freezer. It is incredibly versatile and can elevate a wide range of dishes, giving meals a fresh, vibrant flavor long after basil season has ended. Here are some creative ways to use your frozen pesto:
1. Quick pasta dishes
- One of the easiest and most popular uses for frozen pesto is to toss it into pasta. Simply boil your favorite pasta, drain it and stir in a few thawed pesto cubes or a spoonful of a larger portion. The heat of the pasta melts the pesto, creating a deliciously creamy sauce within seconds. For an extra touch, add grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes or a pinch of Parmesan cheese.
2. Spread on sandwiches and wraps
- Pesto makes a fantastic spread for sandwiches and wraps, adding a rich, spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled meats or fresh mozzarella. Thaw a small amount of pesto and spread it on your bread or tortilla for a quick and tasty upgrade to your lunch.
3. Sprinkle over roasted vegetables
- Roasted vegetables are transformed when drizzled with a little thawed pesto. Whether you’re roasting carrots, potatoes or peppers, a little pesto adds depth and a pop of color. You can also toss the vegetables with the pesto before roasting for a more intense flavor.
4. Use as a marinade or sauce for meat
- Pesto works great as a marinade for chicken, fish or even steak. Thaw the pesto and cover the meat before grilling or baking it for a flavorful and aromatic dish. Pesto can also be spooned over cooked meat as a finishing sauce, adding a burst of flavor just before serving.
5. Stir into soups and stews
- Adding a spoonful of pesto to soups or stews just before serving can brighten the entire dish. It is especially delicious in minestrone or vegetable soups, where the fresh basil and garlic flavors complement the savory ingredients. Stir in the pesto, let it melt and enjoy the improved flavor.
Frozen pesto is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in so many delicious ways. Whether you’re whipping up a quick pasta dish, enhancing the flavor of roasted vegetables, or using it as a marinade, having pesto in your freezer means you’re always just one step away from a fresh, flavorful meal.