What to Do with Leftover Basil Pesto: 12 Creative Ideas!

Basil pesto is one of those versatile, flavorful condiments that can elevate just about any dish.

But what happens when you make more pesto than you can use at once? Don’t let that vibrant, green goodness go to waste! Leftover basil pesto can be transformed into a variety of creative dishes, from hearty pastas to refreshing salads, and even snacks or breakfast items.

In this post, we’ll explore several inventive ways to make the most of your leftover basil pesto, so you can enjoy its rich, herby flavor long after you’ve made it.

Whether you’re looking for quick meal ideas, easy ways to store pesto, or new twists on classic recipes, we’ve got you covered.

What to Do with Leftover Basil Pesto: 12 Creative Ideas

Leftover basil pesto is a gift that keeps on giving, offering countless opportunities to experiment in the kitchen.

From spreading it on sandwiches to mixing it into soups, its versatility ensures you’ll never get bored of the flavors it brings to your meals.

Plus, with proper storage techniques like freezing, you can enjoy basil pesto for months to come, long after your initial batch.

So next time you find yourself with extra pesto, don’t let it go to waste. Embrace the endless possibilities, and turn that leftover pesto into something delicious and new!

Use It as a Pizza Base

One fantastic way to repurpose leftover basil pesto is by using it as a flavorful pizza base.

Instead of traditional tomato sauce, spread a thin layer of pesto on your pizza dough, then add your favorite toppings like mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, or grilled vegetables.

The pesto adds a rich, herby twist that elevates the pizza’s flavor profile.

Why this option?

Basil pesto has a naturally creamy texture, making it an excellent alternative to sauce, especially for those who prefer a lighter and fresher taste.

Caution: Be careful not to overload the pizza with pesto, as it can become too oily when heated.

A thin layer is all you need to enjoy the flavor. You can also use pesto in flatbreads or calzones for a similar effect.

Make a Creamy Pesto Pasta Sauce

Transform your leftover pesto into a creamy sauce by mixing it with a bit of cream, milk, or even cream cheese.

This simple addition creates a rich and decadent pasta dish that feels both gourmet and comforting.

The combination of basil pesto with creamy ingredients balances out the bold flavors and creates a silky sauce that clings perfectly to pasta.

Why this option?

It’s an easy way to extend the life of your pesto and create a more indulgent meal.

Caution: Add cream slowly and taste as you go, ensuring the pesto’s vibrant taste remains the star.

Pair this creamy pesto sauce with short pasta like penne or farfalle, or even gnocchi, for the best results.

Use as a Marinade for Grilled Meats

Basil pesto can also double as a fantastic marinade for grilled meats, especially chicken, pork, or fish. The oils and herbs in pesto seep into the meat, infusing it with flavor and helping to keep it tender during grilling.

Marinate your protein for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Why this option? It’s an easy way to bring more depth to your grilled dishes, adding a burst of flavor without needing additional seasonings.

Caution: If using pesto with fish, marinate for a shorter period to avoid overwhelming the delicate flavor of the fish.

You can also brush extra pesto on the meat during grilling for a finishing touch.

Add It to a Soup for a Flavor Boost

Leftover basil pesto can be stirred into soups to add an extra layer of complexity and flavor.

It works particularly well with creamy soups like tomato bisque, potato leek, or even minestrone.

Simply swirl in a tablespoon or two of pesto toward the end of cooking to enhance the soup’s herbaceous qualities.

Why this option? It’s a simple and efficient way to elevate a basic soup into something more sophisticated with minimal effort.

Caution: Start with a small amount, as pesto has a concentrated flavor. You can always add more to taste.

For a gourmet touch, drizzle the pesto on top of the soup just before serving as a garnish, along with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Use It in a Breakfast Omelette or Scramble

Leftover basil pesto makes a delightful addition to your morning omelette or scramble.

Just mix a spoonful of pesto into your beaten eggs before cooking, or fold it into the omelette with fillings like cheese, tomatoes, or spinach.

The fresh, herby flavor of the pesto complements the richness of the eggs, creating a savory breakfast with minimal effort.

Why this option? It’s a quick and easy way to upgrade a standard breakfast with gourmet flavors, and pesto’s vibrant green color adds visual appeal.

Caution: Since pesto already contains oil, be cautious when adding additional oil or butter to your pan. You can also drizzle some extra pesto on top of the omelette for a finishing touch.

Toss with Roasted Vegetables

Turn your leftover pesto into a flavorful dressing for roasted vegetables. After roasting veggies like carrots, potatoes, or zucchini, toss them in the pesto while they’re still warm.

The warmth helps the pesto evenly coat the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness with a burst of basil and garlic.

Why this option? It’s an easy way to transform plain roasted vegetables into a vibrant and delicious side dish.

Caution: Use the pesto sparingly, as a little goes a long way. If needed, you can thin it out with a bit of olive oil or lemon juice for a lighter dressing. This method also works well for grilled or sautéed veggies.

Spread on Sandwiches or Wraps

Leftover basil pesto can be used as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, adding a punch of flavor to any meal.

Use it in place of mayonnaise or mustard to give your sandwiches a Mediterranean twist. It pairs beautifully with ingredients like turkey, mozzarella, tomatoes, and even roasted peppers.

Why this option? Pesto adds richness and flavor to otherwise simple sandwiches, making lunch more exciting and nutritious.

Caution: Since pesto is oil-based, it can make bread soggy if used in excess, so be mindful of how much you spread on.

You can also try mixing the pesto with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier, less oily spread.

Mix Into Mashed Potatoes

Stirring basil pesto into mashed potatoes is a great way to add an unexpected burst of flavor. After preparing your mashed potatoes with butter and cream, fold in a few tablespoons of pesto.

The result is a flavorful side dish with a bright, herby taste that complements roasted meats or grilled vegetables.

Why this option? The earthiness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the boldness of the pesto, creating a unique and satisfying side dish.

Caution: Start with a small amount of pesto and adjust to taste, as too much can overpower the potatoes.

This trick works equally well with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, herb-infused variation.

Mix It into a Grain Bowl

Leftover basil pesto can be the perfect finishing touch to a nourishing grain bowl.

Combine grains like quinoa, farro, or brown rice with roasted or fresh vegetables, protein like grilled chicken or tofu, and a dollop of pesto on top.

The basil pesto adds a burst of flavor that ties the dish together without needing much else in the way of dressing. Why this option? It’s a great way to build a balanced, nutritious meal while giving your grains and veggies an extra punch of flavor.

Caution: Pesto can be quite rich, so mix in small amounts first and taste as you go. You can lighten the pesto with a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of olive oil if needed.

Use as a Dip for Crackers or Veggies

Transform your leftover basil pesto into a simple yet flavorful dip by serving it alongside crackers, sliced veggies, or toasted pita bread.

You can even mix it with a bit of cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or sour cream to create a smoother, creamier texture that balances the intense flavors of the pesto.

Why this option? It’s a quick and effortless way to create a snack or appetizer, especially when entertaining guests or just looking for something light.

Caution: Pesto on its own can be a bit thick for dipping, so thinning it out slightly or blending with a creamy base may be more suitable.

You can also top the dip with a sprinkle of Parmesan or pine nuts for added texture.

Turn It into a Salad Dressing

Leftover basil pesto can easily be transformed into a delicious salad dressing. Simply whisk it with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice to create a zesty and herb-packed vinaigrette.

This pesto-based dressing pairs particularly well with salads that include tomatoes, mozzarella, grilled chicken, or arugula. Why this option? It’s a simple way to incorporate more flavor into your salads without needing to make a complicated dressing from scratch.

Caution: Since pesto is already oil-based, be careful not to add too much additional oil. Start with a small amount of liquid and adjust to taste until you reach your desired consistency.

This also works well as a dressing for grain-based salads like couscous or bulgur.

Top Off Grilled Cheese or Paninis

Upgrade your grilled cheese or panini with a spread of basil pesto before grilling. The rich, herby pesto pairs wonderfully with melty cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or gouda.

Spread a thin layer on the inside of your bread before adding cheese, or lightly brush it on the outside for extra flavor and crispness.

Why this option? It adds depth and complexity to a classic comfort food, giving it a more gourmet twist without extra effort.

Caution: If using pesto on the outside of the bread, watch it closely to ensure it doesn’t burn during cooking.

Pesto is oil-based and can darken quickly under high heat. You can also add pesto to other sandwich melts, like a tuna melt or caprese panini, for a fresh, bold flavor boost.

How to Store/Freeze Leftover Basil Pesto

Storing leftover basil pesto properly ensures its freshness and preserves the vibrant flavors for future use.

Basil pesto, with its blend of fresh herbs, garlic, nuts, and olive oil, can degrade quickly if not stored correctly.

Refrigeration is ideal for short-term storage, while freezing is perfect for longer periods, allowing you to enjoy the pesto’s flavors months after making it.

Proper storage techniques prevent oxidation, which can turn the pesto brown, and keep it from spoiling.

This guide will help you understand how to store pesto in the refrigerator or freezer, and when to use each method.

Refrigeration for Short-Term Storage

Step 1: Transfer the leftover basil pesto into an airtight container. Glass jars with tight lids or plastic containers with a secure seal work best to limit air exposure.
Step 2: Pour a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto before sealing the container. This oil layer helps protect the basil from air, reducing oxidation and preserving the green color and flavor.
Step 3: Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. The pesto will remain fresh for up to 5 to 7 days.
Step 4: Before each use, stir the pesto to reincorporate the olive oil and ensure even consistency.

Freezing Basil Pesto for Long-Term Storage

Step 1: If you plan to freeze your basil pesto, omit the cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino) from the recipe before freezing. Dairy can cause the pesto to become grainy in texture after freezing. You can always add the cheese once the pesto has thawed.
Step 2: Use ice cube trays to portion out the pesto into small, manageable amounts. This allows you to thaw only as much as you need for a single meal without defrosting the entire batch.
Step 3: Once the pesto is portioned into the tray, pour a small amount of olive oil over each section to create an air barrier, then place the tray in the freezer for 2-3 hours until the cubes are frozen solid.
Step 4: After freezing, transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer-safe ziplock bag or airtight container. Label the bag with the date so you can track how long the pesto has been stored. Frozen pesto will last for up to 6 months.
Step 5: When you’re ready to use the pesto, simply thaw the required number of cubes in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Stir in cheese if it was omitted before freezing.

Alternative Freezing Method

Step 1: If freezing in cubes isn’t your style, transfer the pesto to a small, freezer-safe airtight container.
Step 2: Press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto before sealing the container. This step minimizes air exposure and freezer burn.
Step 3: Seal the container, label it with the date, and freeze. It can also be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months, and you can scoop out the desired amount as needed.

Properly storing leftover basil pesto ensures you can extend its shelf life while maintaining its fresh and vibrant flavor.

Refrigeration works well for short-term use, up to a week, while freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage, allowing you to enjoy pesto for months. Freezing pesto in small portions, such as ice cube trays, provides flexibility and reduces waste, so you can defrost just the amount you need.

The key is to limit air exposure by using airtight containers and an olive oil barrier, which helps prevent oxidation.

Following these steps will let you preserve the essence of basil pesto, keeping it flavorful for when you’re ready to use it again.

Can I freeze leftover basil pesto?

Yes, basil pesto freezes very well and can last up to 6 months in the freezer. For best results, omit the cheese before freezing, as dairy can cause the pesto to become grainy.

You can portion the pesto into ice cube trays for easy use and then transfer the frozen cubes into a freezer-safe bag.

When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the desired amount, add cheese if necessary, and enjoy.

How long does leftover basil pesto last in the fridge?

Leftover basil pesto stored in the refrigerator will last about 5 to 7 days. It’s important to store the pesto in an airtight container and pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.

This helps preserve the vibrant green color and fresh flavor of the pesto for several days.

What can I add to basil pesto to change up the flavor?

You can easily tweak the flavor of basil pesto by adding ingredients like lemon juice for extra acidity, red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or sun-dried tomatoes for a sweeter, tangy twist.

Mixing pesto with cream or cream cheese creates a creamy pesto sauce, ideal for pastas or dipping.

Can I use leftover basil pesto in cold dishes?

Yes, leftover basil pesto is perfect for cold dishes. You can use it as a dressing for pasta salad, a spread for sandwiches or wraps, or mixed into grain bowls.

Its fresh, bold flavors shine in chilled recipes and can easily elevate simple ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, or greens.

What’s the best way to reheat basil pesto?

Basil pesto doesn’t need to be cooked again, but if you’re adding it to a warm dish, it’s best to add it off the heat to prevent the fresh basil from turning brown or losing its flavor.

If you’re incorporating it into a hot pasta or soup, stir it in just before serving to preserve the bright, herby taste.

Sources

Maria G. Brooks

Hello! I’m Maria G. Brooks, a professional chef, passionate recipe maker, and a true food lover at heart. I wanted to create a space where anyone—from experienced chefs to beginners—could find delicious recipes, practical cooking tips, and simple kitchen hacks. My goal was to break down the barriers that often make cooking seem intimidating.

What to Do with Leftover Basil Pesto: 12 Creative Ideas!