Best Pasta For Pesto Sauce (2024 Update)
If you're looking for the perfect pasta to pair with your homemade pesto sauce, you're in luck. While many different types of pasta can work well with pesto, some are definitely better than others. Before you make your purchase, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, think about the texture of the pasta. Pesto is a smooth and creamy sauce, so you ideally want a pasta that will hold onto the sauce as you twirl your fork. Some pasta shapes are better for this than others. It’s also good to consider the thickness of the pasta and its ability to absorb sauce.
Another factor to consider is the flavor of the pasta. Some pastas are quite bland and don't add much to the overall dish. On the other hand, some pasta varieties have a distinct flavor that can either complement or overpower the taste of the pesto.
So, what is the best pasta for pesto sauce? Although it may depend on your personal preference, there are some common favorites among pasta enthusiasts. Have you ever tried the classic linguine or the ridged penne? Or maybe you want to change it up with the long and thin spaghetti or the curly fusilli. Any of these options and more can make for a wonderful pasta and pesto pairing.
Whatever type of pasta you choose, be sure to cook it al dente (to the tooth) to ensure it has the perfect chew. As you twirl your fork and take that first bite, you'll be in for a mouthwatering treat that's sure to please the entire family.
10 Best Pasta For Pesto Sauce
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The product is ideal for adding flavor to dishes such as pasta, sandwiches, and pizza.
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Ideal for adding flavor to pasta, sandwiches, and other dishes with its unique blend of tomato sauce, basil, and almonds.
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Ideal for adding authentic Italian flavor to pasta dishes, salads, sandwiches, and dips.
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Ideal for adding an authentic Italian flavor to pasta, sandwiches, dips, and salad dressings.
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Ideal for adding flavor and convenience to pasta dishes and other recipes, with non-GMO ingredients and traditional Italian-made quality.
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Ideal for those who want to enjoy delicious and healthy organic pesto without nuts and gluten.
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Ideal for making a quick and easy creamy pesto pasta sauce without artificial flavors or added MSG.
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This product is ideal for those who want a gluten-free pasta sauce with fresh kale and sharp white cheddar.
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It is ideal for adding a flavorful pesto sauce to pasta dishes, sandwiches, and other recipes.
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Ideal for those seeking a high-quality, gluten-free pesto made with fresh ingredients and produced in Italy.
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1. Cucina & Amore Genovese Pesto Sauce, Basil, 7.9 Ounce (Pack Of 6)
The product is proudly made in the United States, ensuring top-notch quality and adherence to strict manufacturing standards. Its compact size makes it easy to store and transport, with package dimensions of 6 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 4 inches in height. Despite its sturdy construction, it is lightweight, with a package weight of just 5 pounds. This makes it ideal for those who need a reliable and durable product that won't weigh them down. With these parameters, you can be confident that this product will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
2. Campo D'oro's Trapanese Almond Pesto Sauce.
This 100% Italian sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves the rich and authentic flavors of Italian cuisine. Made with only the freshest ingredients, this tomato with basil & almonds sauce is a typical Sicilian pesto sauce that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen.
With a tomato pulp content of 52%, sunflower oil, and rehydrated sundried tomatoes, this sauce is bursting with flavor and delivers a savory and satisfying taste. The addition of basil at 8% and almonds at 3% from Avola, make this sauce a unique and delicious twist on traditional pesto.
Ideal as a pasta sauce for your favorite recipes, this sauce is perfect for a quick and easy Italian-inspired meal. Its versatility allows it to be used as a dip for bread or vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
The sauce is made with only the finest and most authentic Italian ingredients, including tomato paste, wine vinegar, salt, garlic, and hot pepper, giving it a rich and authentic flavor profile.
Imported directly from the factory, this sauce has an extended shelf life, ensuring that you can enjoy the taste of Italy anytime you want.
3. Basil Bliss: Premium Genovese Pesto (2-Pack)
Botticelli's Premium Basil Pesto Sauce is a delicious and convenient addition to any kitchen. Crafted using traditional Italian recipes, this pasta sauce brings mouth-watering flavors to your favorite meals.
Whether you're short on time or just looking for a quick and easy meal, Botticelli's pesto sauce is ready-to-use and perfect for a variety of dishes. Simply boil your favorite pasta and toss with a spoonful of this delicious pesto sauce for a quick and easy meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.
This premium sauce is made with only the freshest and finest ingredients. Crushed garlic, nuts, coarse salt, fresh basil leaves, hard cheese, and oil are carefully blended to create a rich and authentic Italian taste.
Each 6.7oz jar of Botticelli's Premium Basil Pesto Sauce is well-packaged and sealed to ensure freshness and protect against damage during delivery.
At Botticelli, customer satisfaction is a top priority. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, the company offers a 100% money-back guarantee.
4. Mantova Vegan Basil Pesto, 6.7oz (Pack Of 2), Product Of Italy
This product boasts of rich and traditional flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds. It is crafted using carefully picked quality ingredients, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality. The use of extra virgin olive oil elevates the taste and ensures that the product is healthy and nutritious.
For those who follow a vegan lifestyle, this product is a great option as it is vegan-friendly. It is made using a blend of ingredients that are all natural and free from any animal products.
One of the key features of this product is that it is a product of Italy. Italy is known for its rich culinary traditions and high-quality ingredients, and this product is no exception. The use of ingredients that are handpicked and carefully selected ensures that the product is of the highest quality.
Whether you are looking to add flavor to your dishes or simply want to enjoy a healthy snack, this product is a great choice. It is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a must-have in every kitchen. So, go ahead and experience the rich flavors of Italy with this amazing product!
5. Amore Vegan Pesto Paste In A Tube – Non Gmo Certified And Made In Italy (Pack Of 1)
This product is a game-changer for anyone who wants to elevate their cooking and take it to the next level. Made with fresh Italian basil that is harvested at the peak of its freshness, this pesto paste is unlike any other brand that relies on artificial flavors. The small bottles are packed with bold, vibrant, and zesty flavors that create unmistakably authentic Italian dishes.
The pesto paste comes in a convenient squeeze tube that allows the paste to stay fresh and ready to use for your meals. You can easily control how much pesto paste you are using to maximize the flavor of your dish. This feature is what sets this product apart from other pesto pastes in the market.
Not only is this pesto paste versatile and perfect for a variety of dishes, but it is also made with locally sourced Italian ingredients that provide bold and authentic flavor. This means that you can trust the quality and authenticity of the product.
This product is not only perfect for cooking but can also be used as a sleek side table. It can hold your lamp, media remotes, prized decor accents, or daily necessities. Its versatility makes it a must-have for any household.
6. Freak Flag Organics' Trio Of Organic Pestos
This line of pesto mixes and pasta sauces is a great addition to any pantry, with unexpected flavor twists that will tantalize the taste buds. These products are not only perfect for pasta dishes but can also be used to enhance pizzas, steak, salad dressings, marinades, dips, or sandwich spreads.
The Vegan Tomato Pesto is a delicious blend of Italian-inspired flavors that is sure to impress. It is perfect for enhancing the flavor of pasta dishes and pairs exceptionally well with steak.
The Vegan Kale Pesto combines the goodness of kale with the richness of pumpkin seeds to create a flavor-packed sauce that is both nutritious and delicious. This pesto is perfect for those looking for a healthier, yet flavorful, option for their pasta dishes.
The Vegan Carrot Pesto is a unique blend of Indian and Italian spices that creates a flavor without borders. It is enriched with hemp seed hearts, which add richness to the sauce. This pesto is perfect for those looking to add a burst of flavor to their dishes.
All of these products are made with obsessively clean ingredients and are certified USDA Organic, Vegan, Nut-Free, Dairy-Free, and Gluten-Free. This means that they are not only delicious, but also healthy and suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
7. Creamy Pesto Sauce Mix By Knorr.
The Knorr Sauce Mix Creamy Pesto is a luxurious sauce that will elevate your pasta, meat, and fish dishes. Made with a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheeses, basil, garlic, spinach, and onions, this creamy sauce is a delectable addition to any meal.
This pasta sauce mix is an ideal solution for busy weeknight dinners and simple meals. With each mix making 1 1/4 cups of homestyle sauce, you can whip up a delicious meal for your family in no time.
What makes this creamy pasta sauce even better is that it takes just 7 minutes to prepare. Plus, it contains no artificial flavors or added MSG, except for those naturally occurring glutamates.
Unlike other pesto sauces, this pantry essential is ready to use whenever you need it. Having this mix on hand is a convenient way to add a touch of flavor to your dishes without any hassle.
If you're looking for easy dinner inspiration, try pairing this sauce mix with your favorite pasta, chicken, or fish. The possibilities are endless, and the result will always be a delicious and satisfying meal.
8. Kale Cheddar Pasta Sauce – Rich & Creamy!
Sonoma Gourmet Nut-Free Pesto is a rich and creamy sauce that will elevate your dishes with a burst of flavor. Made using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, this pesto is a perfect addition to any meal.
The versatility of this pasta sauce is unmatched. It can be used as a topping for pasta or as a sauce to spice up your sandwich. Or, if you're feeling indulgent, you can even eat it straight from the jar with a spoon.
Sonoma Gourmet's pesto is made in small batches using only the best ingredients, with no artificial flavors. It is also gluten-free and has no added sugar, making it a healthy and delicious choice for any meal.
If you're looking for a gift for the foodie in your life, Sonoma Gourmet's Nut-Free Pesto is a great option. You can create a beautiful gift basket filled with their products, including their traditional plum tomato marinara and other delicious varieties. You can even add in some of their gourmet flavored olive oils or pizza sauces to complete the package.
9. Sundried Tomato Pesto: Fresh, Italian, Keto-Friendly
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this high-quality red pesto sauce made from natural ingredients. Cold-pressed Ligurian EVOO, sundried tomatoes, cashew nuts, and DOP basil are combined using an old family recipe and traditional production methods to create a delicious and flavorful pesto sauce.
This versatile sauce is perfect for pasta dishes. Simply cook your pasta, drain it, and add it to a bowl of pesto. Stir in some EVOO and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese for a delectable and satisfying meal. It can also be served cold as a pasta salad or spread on bread as an aperitif. In the summer, try adding fresh diced tomatoes to the dish for an extra burst of flavor.
Imported from Italy, this red pesto sauce is a variant of the classic Italian pesto sauce and originates from Genova in the Liguria region of northern Italy. It has since become widespread throughout the country and is a beloved condiment for pasta dishes and spreads.
Not only is this red pesto sauce delicious, but it is also keto-friendly, gluten-free, and made with non-GMO products. It is suitable for many diets, including Paleo and Atkins.
Indulge in the rich and authentic taste of Italy with this high-quality red pesto sauce made from all-natural ingredients. Whether you are a pasta lover or simply looking for a flavorful spread for your bread, this red pesto sauce is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Best Pasta For Pesto Sauce FAQs
Can I add vegetables or protein to my pasta and pesto sauce dish?
Absolutely! One of the great things about pasta dishes is their versatility and ability to be customized to your liking. Adding vegetables such as broccoli, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini can not only add more nutrition to your meal but also provide a nice pop of color and texture. In terms of protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be great options to incorporate into a pasta and pesto sauce dish. Additionally, adding some grated parmesan cheese or pine nuts can enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly to ensure that all ingredients are cooked properly and complement each other well.
Can I use gluten-free pasta with pesto sauce?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free pasta with pesto sauce. Pesto sauce is typically made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, and is naturally gluten-free. However, it's important to ensure that the pasta you choose is also gluten-free. Look for pasta made from alternative flours like rice, corn, or quinoa, or specifically labeled as gluten-free. This will help you avoid any potential cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains. Once you have your gluten-free pasta cooked and drained, you can toss it with your pesto sauce and any additional ingredients you like, such as roasted vegetables or grilled chicken. Gluten-free pasta with pesto sauce is a tasty and easy meal that can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I use whole wheat pasta with pesto sauce?
Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat pasta with pesto sauce. In fact, whole wheat pasta is a healthier alternative to regular pasta as it is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Pesto sauce, on the other hand, is a delicious and versatile sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of whole wheat pasta and pesto sauce is not only healthy but also packed with flavor.
To make this dish, cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to a large mixing bowl. Then, add the pesto sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. You can also add some grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or cherry tomatoes to make this dish more filling and nutritious.
Overall, using whole wheat pasta with pesto sauce is a great way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. So, go ahead and give it a try!
How much pasta should I cook for a jar of pesto sauce?
The amount of pasta to cook for a jar of pesto sauce depends on the size of the jar and your desired serving size. As a general rule, a 6-8 oz jar of pesto sauce can be used to dress 1 pound (16 oz) of pasta, which yields about 4-6 servings. However, if you prefer a lighter coating of sauce on your pasta, you can use less pasta per jar of pesto. Similarly, if you like a heavier coating of sauce, you can use more pesto per pound of pasta. It's always best to start with a smaller amount of pasta and add more as needed, rather than overloading your pasta with sauce. Additionally, it's important to follow the cooking instructions on your pasta package to ensure that it's cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Is there a specific brand of pasta that works best with pesto sauce?
When it comes to pairing pasta with pesto sauce, there isn't necessarily a specific brand that works best. However, some pasta shapes and textures may complement the flavors and consistency of pesto sauce better than others. Traditionally, in Liguria, where pesto originates from, they pair pesto with trofie pasta, a short, twisted shape that helps the sauce cling to the pasta. Additionally, linguine, spaghetti, and fusilli also work well with pesto because they have a similar texture to trofie. Ultimately, the choice of pasta brand and shape is up to personal preference. It's important to cook the pasta al-dente and reserve some of the starchy pasta water to help loosen and bind the pesto sauce to the pasta. Whether it's a well-known brand or a lesser-known one, the most important thing is to enjoy the delicious combination of pesto and pasta.
Should I use fresh or dried pasta for pesto sauce?
Both fresh and dried pasta can be used for pesto sauce, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and cooking time.
Fresh pasta has a softer texture and cooks much quicker, typically in just a few minutes. It also has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the bold flavors of pesto sauce. However, it is more perishable and may not be as readily available as dried pasta.
Dried pasta, on the other hand, has a firmer texture and a slightly nuttier flavor. It is also more shelf-stable and widely available in supermarkets. It takes longer to cook, usually around 8-10 minutes, but it can hold up well to the thick and rich consistency of pesto sauce.
Ultimately, the decision between fresh and dried pasta for pesto sauce comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a softer texture and have the time to make or buy fresh pasta, go for it. If you prefer a firmer texture and want a more convenient option, dried pasta is a great choice.
Should I use long or short pasta for pesto sauce?
When it comes to choosing the right pasta to pair with pesto sauce, it ultimately depends on personal preference. However, it's worth noting that different pasta shapes can affect the overall texture and taste of the dish.
Short pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle are great options for pesto sauce as they can hold the sauce within their nooks and crannies. This allows for a more even distribution of the sauce throughout the pasta, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
On the other hand, long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine can also work well with pesto sauce, but they require a bit more attention during cooking to avoid clumping together. These pasta shapes are ideal for those who prefer a more delicate and subtle flavor, as the sauce will likely coat the pasta thinly.
In conclusion, whether you choose long or short pasta for pesto sauce is up to you. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente, and don't forget to reserve some pasta water to help bind the sauce to the pasta.
What other ingredients should I pair with pasta and pesto sauce for a complete meal?
Pesto sauce is a delicious and versatile sauce that can be paired with a variety of ingredients to create a complete meal. To make a well-balanced and satisfying meal, you can add different proteins, vegetables, and grains to your pasta and pesto dish.
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon are great protein options that pair well with the rich and tangy flavors of pesto sauce. Roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus not only add color and texture but also provide essential nutrients to your meal. You can also add some fresh greens such as spinach, arugula, or kale to your pasta dish to make it more filling and nutritious. For a heartier meal, you can add some cooked grains such as quinoa, brown rice, or farro to your pasta and pesto dish.
In summary, there are many ingredients that can be paired with pasta and pesto sauce to create a complete meal. The key is to experiment with different flavors and textures until you find your perfect combination.
What shape of pasta is best for pesto sauce?
When it comes to pairing pasta shapes with sauces, choosing the right shape can make a significant difference in the overall taste and texture of the dish. Pesto sauce is a classic Italian sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. It has a rich and creamy texture and a strong herbaceous flavor. The ideal pasta shape for pesto sauce is long, thin, and cylindrical, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. The reason for this is that these shapes allow the sauce to coat the pasta evenly, while also allowing the pasta to hold onto the sauce. Additionally, the thinness of the pasta helps to balance out the richness of the sauce. However, this is not a hard and fast rule, and you can experiment with other shapes like fusilli or farfalle, which also work well with pesto sauce. Ultimately, the choice of pasta shape depends on personal preference, and you should choose the shape that you enjoy the most.
What type of pasta pairs best with pesto sauce?
When it comes to pairing pasta with pesto sauce, there are a few options that work particularly well together. Traditionally, pesto sauce is served with long, thin noodles such as spaghetti or linguine, as the sauce clings to the strands of pasta. However, it can also be served with shorter pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, which catch and hold the sauce well.
Another option that pairs well with pesto sauce is trofie, a short, twisted pasta shape from the Liguria region of Italy where pesto sauce originated. The twisted shape of the pasta helps the sauce adhere to the noodles, creating a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ultimately, the best type of pasta to pair with pesto sauce is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different shapes and textures to find the perfect combination for your taste buds. Just remember to cook your pasta al dente, so it has the perfect bite and texture for your pesto sauce.
