Pasta with pesto make the perfect pairing, and for years has been my quick, and delicious ‘go-to’ meal. However, as I have made more conscious health decisions in my life I have pondered numerous ways to make this dish just a touch more nutritious because I mean, if you can, why wouldn’t you? Below are five of my favourite combos that throw some variety into the mix. Want to try them out? Then read on for Pesto: Top 5 Alternative & Healthy Recipes You’ll Love!
1. Broccoli
Broccoli pesto is the way forward, using broccoli as a base boasts more vitamins and protein than regular store bought pesto. This makes it a great way to sneak in extra nutrients especially if you have kids that hate the green stuff!
2. Avocado
If you are looking for a quick and quirky date-night recipe; Avocado Pesto is a fun way to switch up the standard meal. It’s thicker and creamier than normal pesto, making it an incredibly rich and comforting dinner meal for those nights when you just need a bit of TLC. Check out the video for our favourite vegan-friendly recipe!
3. Cilantro (Coriander)
Cilantro or coriander depending on where you’re from is a great antioxidant pesto. If you ever find yourself with wilted herbs sitting in the fridge, you can use them in pesto to diminish food waste and produce an aromatic pesto sauce for meats or even as a complementary dip. Any herb will do so you can cater this recipe to your own taste.
4. Roasted Tomato
Red pesto is a beautiful accompaniment to most dishes and this tomato-based one goes well with pretty much any food. The best part is that you can use a full jar of sundried or roasted tomatoes including the oil within it to make two thirds of the entire recipe. Add some seasoning and you’ve got yourself a whole new sauce from just one jar – clever eh?
5. Truffle
Another game-changing one on this list is mushroom and truffle pesto. This marvellous combination boasts plenty of vitamins and minerals and is an upmarket option to impress a loved one or to serve at dinner parties with friends and family.
