Pesto is one of the most versatile sauces you can keep in your kitchen. Made with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, olive oil, and a touch of lemon, pesto instantly adds bold, fresh flavor to pasta, chicken, seafood, vegetables, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests, these pesto dinner recipes are easy to prepare and packed with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Here are 10 delicious pesto recipes that deserve a spot on your dinner menu.
Why Cook with Pesto?
Pesto is a dinner favorite because it:
- Adds fresh, herbaceous flavor
- Takes minutes to prepare
- Pairs well with chicken, seafood, vegetables, and pasta
- Works as a sauce, marinade, or spread
- Makes simple meals taste gourmet
Let’s dive into these easy pesto dinner recipes.
1. Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
A comforting dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- Season and cook the chicken in olive oil until golden.
- Stir in the pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Toss with the cooked pasta and serve warm.
Serve With
Garlic bread and a Caesar salad.