As for eating pesto neat, well, if that’s your thing, go for it. We think its richness means you’ll probably get sick of it long before you reach the bottom of the jar.
Most types of pesto also contain garlic, salt, and aged cheese for flavor; good quality olive oil for moisture; and nuts for some crunch.
What’s more, studies show that the individual ingredients in pesto may have health benefits (6, 7).
It’s commonly used as a sauce tossed with pasta, though it really is a multipurpose condiment. The herbs and garlic add delicious flavor, and the cheese gets warm and melty in hot dishes.
Last but not least, fresh basil is also associated with health benefits. For example, test-tube and animal studies have shown that antioxidants and essential oils from basil leaves may reduce blood sugar levels and prevent the growth of foodborne pathogens (9).
It’s traditionally made with fresh basil, olive oil, and a few other ingredients, though it’s easy to make at home and customize to your taste.
Does pesto go bad?
FAQ
Can you eat pesto straight from the jar?
Can pesto be eaten alone?
Is it okay to eat off pesto?
How is pesto traditionally eaten?
Can you eat Pesto on its own?
Although you can eat pesto on its own, most people prefer to add it to other foods. Because its ingredients include olive oil, nuts, and cheese, pesto can be high in calories and fat. However, the fat is primarily unsaturated and may have heart health benefits. Pesto is also full of antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.
Is pesto high in carbohydrates?
Pesto sauce is rich in fiber mainly from basil and excellent quality fats from extra virgin olive oil. This when made at home with the traditional recipe. For store-bought pesto sauce, check the label.
Can pesto be cooked?
Pesto for pasta is not meant to be cooked, but rather tossed raw with just-cooked pasta, along with a splash of cooking water. Of course, there are countless other ways to put your pesto to use. Spread a little on top of grilled eggplant, mushrooms or peppers.
How do you eat pesto?
Here are 10 ways to eat pesto. 1) Get soupy. In Italy, a pot of minestrone is never complete without adding a swizzle of homemade pesto into the finished soup. Adding a few dollops of green pesto to a pot of soup adds a velvety smoothness, as well as a finishing flavor that pops and lingers on the palate.