Pesto (Basil, 1 tbsp)

15 g
80 Calories
Fats
Insight

Pesto is a vibrant, aromatic sauce that brings the quintessential flavors of the Mediterranean directly to your plate. Traditionally crafted from a blend of fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and aged Parmesan cheese, it boasts a complex flavor profile that is beautifully herbaceous, rich, and savory. Because it relies heavily on high-quality oils and nuts, it functions exceptionally well as a flavorful fat source in a wide variety of culinary applications. A single tablespoon can effortlessly elevate simple dishes, acting as a luscious spread for artisanal sandwiches, a vibrant stir-in for hot pastas and risottos, or a robust marinade for grilled chicken and roasted vegetables. Its concentrated, punchy taste means that a little goes a long way, allowing you to impart deep, fresh flavors to your everyday meals with minimal effort.

Culinary & Storage Tips

Selection

Choose pesto with a vibrant green color and a simple ingredient list featuring extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil, pine nuts, and garlic, avoiding brands with artificial preservatives or cheap seed oils.

Storage

Store opened pesto in the refrigerator and pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top to prevent the basil from oxidizing and turning brown. For long-term storage, freeze excess pesto in ice cube trays.

Healthy Uses

  • Toss 1 tablespoon into zucchini noodles or whole-wheat pasta for a vibrant, flavorful dish.
  • Mix with a scoop of plain Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice to create a lower-calorie dressing or dip.
  • Spread over baked salmon, grilled chicken breast, or roasted vegetables to add instant flavor without using heavy marinades.

Macronutrients

Per Serving

1.3g Protein · 1.1g Carbs · 8.2g Fat

Micronutrients

NutrientAmount
Calcium
Choline
Copper
Folate (B9)
Iron
Magnesium
Manganese
Niacin (B3)
Phosphorus
Potassium
Riboflavin (B2)
Selenium
Sodium
Thiamin (B1)
Vitamin A
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B6
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Zinc

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Frequently Asked Questions

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