Best 20 Pesto Sauce Recipes

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Pesto sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. It is made from a combination of fresh herbs, such as basil, parsley, and mint, as well as olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pesto sauce can be used as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, stirred into pasta or soup, or even used as a marinade for chicken or fish. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy recipe or something more complex, there is sure to be a pesto sauce recipe that is perfect for you. So grab your ingredients and let's get started!

Here are our top 20 tried and tested recipes!

PESTO CREAM SAUCE



Pesto Cream Sauce image

Serve this delicious sauce over your favorite pasta for a quick, delectable meal. Do NOT substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream if you want a thick sauce. Heavy cream contains at least 36% milkfat. Half-and-half, just like the name says, is half milk and half cream and is no more than 18% milkfat. If half-and-half is used, the sauce will only be half as thick as it would if heavy cream were used. Also, if the amount of butter is reduced, that will also make the sauce thinner, as butter is 80% milkfat.

Provided by mailbelle

Categories     Sauces

Time 15m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup prepared pesto sauce
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded

Steps:

  • Heat heavy whipping cream and water in a small, heavy saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
  • Add butter, pesto sauce, garlic powder and salt. Reduce heat and continue to cook about 5 more minutes over low heat.
  • Stir in 1/2 cup parmesan cheese until melted.

SCALLOPS WITH PESTO CREAM SAUCE



Scallops with Pesto Cream Sauce image

This delicious scallop dish only takes a few minutes to make and is to die for. Serve the scallops as they are or with some crusty bread, rice, or pasta.

Provided by Natalie Titanov

Categories     Seafood     Shellfish     Scallops

Time 15m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 pound scallops
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon pesto
1 tablespoon capers
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Steps:

  • Season scallops with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.
  • Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and add scallops. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side. Add pesto and capers; mix well. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 389.4 calories, Carbohydrate 5 g, Cholesterol 144.9 mg, Fat 30.8 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 23 g, SaturatedFat 18 g, Sodium 430.3 mg, Sugar 0.1 g

PESTO CREAM SAUCE



Pesto Cream Sauce image

This absolutely combines the best ingredients to create a rich, velvety pesto sauce. It's sinfully delicious!

Provided by rosiella

Categories     World Cuisine Recipes     European     Italian

Time 50m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 (16 ounce) package linguine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
8 cloves garlic, sliced
½ cup butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 pinch salt
1 pinch pepper
1 ½ cups grated Romano cheese
1 cup prepared basil pesto
1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
20 mushrooms, chopped
3 roma (plum) tomato, diced

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute onion until tender and translucent. Stir in garlic and butter, and saute until garlic is soft and fragrant, about 1 minute. Dissolve flour in milk, then stir in. Season with salt and pepper, and simmer 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Add cheese, and stir until melted. Stir in pesto. Add shrimp, mushrooms and tomatoes. Cook 4 minutes, or until heated through. Toss with pasta until evenly coated.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 677.2 calories, Carbohydrate 52.2 g, Cholesterol 154.9 mg, Fat 38.3 g, Fiber 3.8 g, Protein 33.6 g, SaturatedFat 16.6 g, Sodium 738.2 mg, Sugar 6.8 g

PHENOMENAL CHICKEN AND PASTA IN CREAMY PESTO SAUCE



Phenomenal Chicken and Pasta in Creamy Pesto Sauce image

An extremely delicious meal: the crunch of pine nuts and the tang of sun-dried tomatoes combine with chicken and pasta in a heavenly pesto cream sauce. Be sure to taste and salt before serving, because depending on what kind of chicken broth you use, the dish may require no salt at all or may be extremely under-salted.

Provided by GILL846

Categories     Main Dish Recipes     Pasta     Chicken

Time 55m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 21

2 cups fresh basil
3 cloves garlic
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup pine nuts
1 medium ripe tomato, chopped
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup chicken broth
1 cup white wine
2 tablespoons dried basil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 (16 ounce) package dried penne pasta
5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 large onion, diced
1 tablespoon sugar
½ (8 ounce) jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
⅓ cup pine nuts
½ cup white wine
1 cup heavy cream
salt to taste

Steps:

  • Place basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and tomato in a food processor. Gradually add olive oil, while pulsing, until mixture is smooth and creamy.
  • In a bowl, stir together chicken broth, 1 cup white wine, dried basil, oregano, and minced garlic. Stir in chicken pieces.
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta, and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, and rinse under cold water. Toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Set aside.
  • Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in onions, and sprinkle with sugar. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts, and cook about 3 minutes. Stir in chicken and marinade. Stir in 1/2 cup white wine. Simmer chicken pieces, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes.
  • Add pasta and pesto to the skillet. Stir in cream, and cook until the sauce is thickened. Adjust salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, and serve with freshly grated Parmesan.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 943 calories, Carbohydrate 71.1 g, Cholesterol 126.7 mg, Fat 49.9 g, Fiber 5.7 g, Protein 45.7 g, SaturatedFat 15 g, Sodium 220.6 mg, Sugar 7.5 g

GNOCCHI WITH PESTO SAUCE



Gnocchi with Pesto Sauce image

Perk up gnocchi and vegetables with a flavorful pesto sauce. If you don't have pine nuts for the topping, skip or substitute any nut you like. -Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 25m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup diced zucchini
1/2 cup chopped sweet yellow pepper
1/4 cup prepared pesto
1 cup chopped tomatoes
Toasted pine nuts, optional

Steps:

  • Cook gnocchi according to package directions; drain., Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; saute zucchini and pepper until zucchini is tender., Add pesto and gnocchi, stirring gently to coat. Stir in tomatoes. If desired, top with pine nuts.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 327 calories, Fat 9g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 8mg cholesterol, Sodium 682mg sodium, Carbohydrate 52g carbohydrate (10g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 9g protein.

PASTA WITH SPINACH PESTO SAUCE



Pasta with Spinach Pesto Sauce image

A healthy, low-fat alternative to high-fat pesto sauce. Can also be made with basil or cilantro.

Provided by Sheila Martin

Categories     World Cuisine Recipes     European     Italian

Time 45m

Yield 5

Number Of Ingredients 13

16 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
6 ounces low-fat, firm silken tofu
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
⅛ cup low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
6 ounces fresh sliced shiitake mushrooms
½ cup diced red onion
¼ cup bacon bits
1 pound penne pasta

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions.
  • While pasta is cooking, in food processor or blender, combine spinach, tofu, lemon juice, garlic, broth, cheese, pepper, and Italian seasoning, process until smooth. Set aside.
  • Spray a large non-stick saute pan with cooking spray. Over medium heat, cook onions and mushrooms until tender. Reduce heat to low, add pesto mixture and heat until hot.
  • Toss pasta with sauce and bacon bits. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. NOTE: If sauce seems too thick, thin to desired consistency with pasta cooking water or broth.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 450.8 calories, Carbohydrate 76.7 g, Cholesterol 11.1 mg, Fat 6.5 g, Fiber 6.5 g, Protein 25.2 g, SaturatedFat 2.4 g, Sodium 416.6 mg, Sugar 5.8 g

SHRIMP WITH LINGUINE IN A PESTO CREAM SAUCE



Shrimp with Linguine in a Pesto Cream Sauce image

Provided by Food Network

Categories     main-dish

Time 35m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 22

1 pound linguine
1/4 cup kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Essence, divided, recipe follows
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup pesto
1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water
2 tablespoons chopped parsley leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried thyme

Steps:

  • Set a large 1-gallon stock pot of water to a boil and add the kosher salt. Place the linguine in the pot and stir the pot until the water returns to a boil. Cook the pasta until tender, but with a bit of resistance (al dente), about 12 minutes.
  • While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. Set a 12-inch saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and olive oil to the pan. Once the butter has melted, season the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of the Essence and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and add the shrimp to the pan. Sear the shrimp until pink, about 1 minute, then turn over and cook for another minute. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside. Add the onions and saute until softened and lightly caramelized, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic to the pan and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the cream, pesto, remaining tablespoon of Essence, remaining teaspoon of the salt to the pan and bring to a boil. Cook the sauce until the cream is reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Return the shrimp, linguine and the reserved cooking water to the pan and cook, tossing to incorporate for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove pan from the heat and add the parsley and parmesan cheese and toss to blend. Serve immediately.
  • Combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  • Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch
  • Published by William Morrow, 1993.

PESTO ALFREDO SAUCE



Pesto Alfredo Sauce image

This simple alfredo sauce is quick and full of flavor. Not as thick as traditional sauce but it also doesn't have as much fat or calories. Serve over cooked fettuccine noodles and sprinkle with Parmesan.

Provided by Sarah Dipity

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes     Sauce Recipes     Pasta Sauce Recipes

Time 13m

Yield 3

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 cup half-and-half
¼ cup prepared pesto
2 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Stir half-and-half, pesto, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper together in a skillet over medium-low heat; cook until hot, about 8 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 277.1 calories, Carbohydrate 5.1 g, Cholesterol 56.9 mg, Fat 26.4 g, Fiber 0.6 g, Protein 6.3 g, SaturatedFat 13.2 g, Sodium 343.3 mg, Sugar 0.2 g

CREAMY CILANTRO PESTO SAUCE



Creamy Cilantro Pesto Sauce image

A delicious creamy topping for chicken or fish. Can be served cold or hot. I personally prefer it cold on top of hot broiled lemon pepper mahi mahi with brown rice and steamed spinach. Garnish dish with cilantro leaves after topping with sauce.

Provided by KB

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes     Sauce Recipes

Time 10m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 bunch cilantro leaves
½ cup reduced-fat cream cheese
5 artichoke hearts
2 green onions, or more to taste
5 leaves fresh basil, or more to taste
2 tablespoons chopped jalapeno pepper
½ lemon, juiced
1 dash salt

Steps:

  • Blend cilantro leaves, cream cheese, artichoke hearts, green onions, basil, jalapeno pepper, lemon juice, and salt in a blender until smooth.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 44.8 calories, Carbohydrate 2.7 g, Cholesterol 8.9 mg, Fat 2.9 g, Fiber 0.6 g, Protein 2.2 g, SaturatedFat 1.8 g, Sodium 152.6 mg, Sugar 0.2 g

ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA WITH PESTO CREAM SAUCE



Roasted Vegetable Lasagna with Pesto Cream Sauce image

Here's a new twist on lasagna made with vegetables and a creamy pesto base. It's a great option for entertaining when you need to satisfy a lot of different guests' tastes. The roasted vegetables also make a great side dish that goes with any meat. They can be made a day in advance. I often bake a double batch and set half aside to go with another meal.

Provided by JennaferPC

Categories     Main Dish Recipes     Pasta     Pesto Pasta Recipes

Time 1h40m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 15

2 zucchini, sliced lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch-thick pieces
1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch squares
2 cups bite-sized broccoli pieces
1 ½ cups bite-sized baby carrot pieces
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, or more to taste
salt and ground black pepper to taste
6 lasagna noodles, or more as needed
1 cup Alfredo sauce
2 tablespoons pesto, or more to taste
1 (16 ounce) container ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ (6 ounce) package fresh spinach
1 (16 ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon dried oregano

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease or line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Arrange zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Coat with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  • Roast vegetables in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 40 minutes.
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes.
  • Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line the bottom of a 9x13-inch casserole dish with one layer of lasagna noodles.
  • Toss the roasted vegetables with Alfredo sauce and pesto until well coated. Spread mixture over the noodles in the dish. Place another layer of noodles over the vegetables.
  • Mix ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, and spinach together and spread mixture over the noodle layer. Distribute mozzarella cheese evenly over the ricotta layer. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and oregano on top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until heated through and cheese is melted, 30 to 35 minutes. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly brown the top layer, if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 496.6 calories, Carbohydrate 25.4 g, Cholesterol 76.4 mg, Fat 31.2 g, Fiber 2.9 g, Protein 30 g, SaturatedFat 14.8 g, Sodium 953.9 mg, Sugar 5.1 g

GRILLED FISH FILLET WITH PESTO SAUCE



Grilled fish fillet with pesto sauce image

Moist, grilled fillets made with only one tablespoon of oil, and served with a fresh-tasting pesto sauce. Yum!

Provided by Philips Canada

Categories     Seafood     Fish

Time 18m

Yield 2

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 white fish fillets (200 g each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
pepper & salt
1 bunch fresh basil
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon pine nuts
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Steps:

  • Heat the Philips Airfryer to 180C.
  • Brush the fish fillets with the oil and season with pepper & salt. Place in the cooking basket of the Airfryer and slide the basket into the Philips Airfryer. Set the timer for 8 minutes.
  • Pick the basil leaves and place them with the garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese and olive oil in a food processor or pestle and mortar. Pulse or grind the mixture until it turns into a sauce. Add some salt to taste.
  • Place the fish fillets on a serving plate and serve them drizzled with the pesto sauce.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 1301.8 calories, Carbohydrate 3.1 g, Cholesterol 58.3 mg, Fat 123.5 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 43.3 g, SaturatedFat 17.8 g, Sodium 1773.2 mg, Sugar 0.3 g

PESTO SAUCE



Pesto Sauce image

I like to serve this pesto over butter gnocchi with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Gnocchi are light little potato dumplings, which are available in Italian grocery stores and cook up in mere minutes. The pesto is also delicious tossed with penne pasta or in one of these recipes using pesto. -Sue Jurack, Mequon, Wisconsin

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 15m

Yield 1/2 cup.

Number Of Ingredients 7

3/4 cup loosely packed basil leaves
2 tablespoons pine nuts or sunflower kernels
1 garlic clove, peeled
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Place the first five ingredients in a small food processor; pulse until chopped. Continue processing while gradually adding oil in a steady stream. Add cheese; pulse just until blended. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 217 calories, Fat 22g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 5mg cholesterol, Sodium 420mg sodium, Carbohydrate 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 4g protein.

CHICKEN FETTUCCINE WITH PESTO CREAM SAUCE



Chicken Fettuccine with Pesto Cream Sauce image

Use our Basil Pesto to whip up this crowd-pleasing creamy pasta dish.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Pasta and Grains

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 6

3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (6 to 8 ounces each)
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound fettuccine
4 cubes (1/2 cup) frozen Basil Pesto
1/4 cup heavy cream

Steps:

  • Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. With a meat mallet or heavy skillet, pound chicken to an even 3/4-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet; cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Slice each piece across the grain into 4 or 5 strips; cover to keep warm.
  • Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup cooking water. Drain pasta and return to pot.
  • In a small saucepan, heat pesto over low until liquefied. Stir in cream; heat until warm. Toss pasta with reserved cooking water and half the sauce. Divide among shallow bowls; top with chicken. Drizzle with remaining sauce.

ONE PAN PASTA WITH CREAMY SHRIMP AND PESTO SAUCE



One Pan Pasta With Creamy Shrimp and Pesto Sauce image

This recipe from Sunset uses only one pan. Yup, a single pan! The secret is to use frozen cooked shrimp and prepared pesto. When I make it, I thaw the shrimp by putting them in the same colander I am going to use for the pasta. Then I pour the pasta and its boiling water over the shrimp, and--voila--thawed shrimp! The recipe is very pesto-y, so, if you like, feel free to cut down on the pesto and use more sun-dried tomatoes. Also, use whatever pasta shape you like (we prefer long noodles, for instance).

Provided by CorriePDX

Categories     Penne

Time 25m

Yield 3 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

12 ounces dry penne pasta
1 lb frozen pre- cooked shrimp, thawed
1/2 cup prepared pesto sauce
1/4 cup whipping cream
1/4 cup chicken broth
3 tablespoons chopped drained sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • In a 4- to 6-quart pan over high heat, bring about 3 quarts water to a boil. Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender to bite, 7 to 12 minutes. Drain and return to pan.
  • Add shrimp, pesto, cream, broth, and dried tomatoes to pasta; stir over medium heat until hot and evenly incorporated, 2 to 3 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.

SALMON PENNE WITH BASIL PESTO CREAM SAUCE, ARTICHOKES, AND ASPARAGUS



Salmon Penne With Basil Pesto Cream Sauce, Artichokes, and Asparagus image

I first ate this dish at McCormick & Schmick's Restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia. Once I tasted it, I had to go home and duplicate it. This is approximate to the original dish, if not better!

Provided by By The Lake

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 45m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 lb salmon fillet
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
sea salt
fresh ground black pepper
1 lb penne pasta
1/2 cup butter
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup half-and-half
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
2 -3 tablespoons pesto sauce
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can artichoke hearts, quartered
1/2 lb asparagus

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut the salmon into 1 inch cubes and place in a buttered baking dish. Add the lemon juice to the melted butter and drizzle over the salmon. Season the salmon with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Do not let the salmon overcook. Remove immediately from the oven and keep warm.
  • While the salmon is cooking, add the pasta to a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Cut the asparagus into 1 inch pieces. Add the asparagus to the boiling water during the last three to five minutes of cooking. Drain and put in a large serving bowl.
  • While the salmon and pasta are cooking, combine the butter, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and half-and-half in a saucepan. Season with garlic salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat. Add the pesto at this point. Go light with the pesto to ensure the sauce is lightly flavored.
  • Mix the artichoke hearts with the asparagus and penne pasta and pour the sauce over the pasta mixture. Mix lightly to coat everything. Add the salmon cubes to the top of the pasta. If desired, serve with extra parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 1239.9, Fat 72.3, SaturatedFat 40.7, Cholesterol 239.7, Sodium 843.8, Carbohydrate 108.4, Fiber 20.2, Sugar 3.9, Protein 45.8

GRILLED MAHI MAHI WITH ROASTED PEPPER SAUCE AND CILANTRO PESTO



Grilled Mahi Mahi with Roasted Pepper Sauce and Cilantro Pesto image

Use your grill to give the mahi mahi a lovely smokey aroma. The red pepper and cilantro pesto adds color and texture to this flavorful dish. Try serving with yellow rice or sugar snap peas for an amazing meal. You could easily adapt this recipe for other types of fish like snapper or swordfish.

Provided by CookinginFL

Categories     Seafood     Fish     Mahi Mahi

Time 40m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 14

½ cup white wine
1 shallot, minced
2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic
⅓ cup chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 (12 ounce) jar roasted red bell peppers, drained
4 (6 ounce) mahi mahi fillets
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat.
  • Place the wine and shallot in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and reduce the liquid down by about half, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Place the Parmesan cheese, garlic, and walnuts into a food processor; process until finely chopped. Add the olive oil, cilantro, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; process until smooth. Remove the cilantro pesto from the food processor and set aside.
  • Place the red peppers into the food processor, pour in the wine reduction, and process until smooth. Pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer the sauce for 4 minutes. Meanwhile, season both sides of the mahi mahi fillets with salt and pepper.
  • Cook the mahi mahi on the preheated grill until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork, about 4 minutes per side.
  • Whisk the butter, 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt into the red pepper sauce until smooth. Spoon the red pepper sauce onto the bottom of the serving plate, arrange the fish on the sauce, and top with the cilantro pesto to serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 341.1 calories, Carbohydrate 9.5 g, Cholesterol 134.2 mg, Fat 15.2 g, Fiber 1.5 g, Protein 35.6 g, SaturatedFat 3.8 g, Sodium 668.9 mg, Sugar 3.4 g

BASIC PESTO SAUCE



Basic Pesto Sauce image

The key to making creamy pesto is to add the ingredients to the food processor in the right order to ensure that the nuts break down to a fine paste before the greens have a chance to turn brown. Use basic basil pesto as a pasta sauce, or thin it out with a little olive oil to drizzle it over steak, chicken, fish, pizza or tomato salad. The mint-pistachio variation is inspired by the chef Travis Lett, of Gjelina in Venice, Calif.

Provided by Samin Nosrat

Categories     quick, sauces and gravies, side dish

Time 20m

Yield 1 2/3 cups

Number Of Ingredients 6

1/2 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 cups packed basil leaves (2 1/2 ounces/75 grams, from 1 big bunch or 2 small bunches)
1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (3 ounces/85 grams)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste

Steps:

  • Pulse pine nuts in a food processor until they're completely broken down. Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula from time to time. Add olive oil and garlic and pulse until garlic is finely chopped.
  • Chop basil very roughly - just run a knife through it once or twice to cut most of the leaves into halves or thirds - then add to food processor. Pulse, stopping every 15 seconds to push the leaves down with a rubber spatula, until basil is entirely worked into the oil. Pulse for another few seconds, and then stop to prevent turning the basil brown.
  • Pour pesto base into a bowl and add grated cheese and salt. Stir to combine, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Leave the sauce thick to toss with cooked pasta and a little pasta cooking water. To use the pesto as a garnish for grilled or roasted meats, fish and vegetables, thin it out with 2 to 3 more tablespoons olive oil until it's the consistency of a loose paste. To store leftovers, pour a little more olive oil over the pesto to cover. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 168, UnsaturatedFat 13 grams, Carbohydrate 1 gram, Fat 17 grams, Fiber 0 grams, Protein 3 grams, SaturatedFat 3 grams, Sodium 88 milligrams, Sugar 0 grams

LOW FAT PESTO SAUCE



Low Fat Pesto Sauce image

Pesto sauce is great, but it usually has olive oil, not chicken broth. This recipe substitutes with chicken broth.

Provided by Lorane Abari

Categories     Sauces

Time 15m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 5

2/3 cup chicken broth or 2/3 cup vegetable stock
2 garlic cloves
1 cup fresh basil
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons pine nuts

Steps:

  • Combine stock and garlic and heat in the microwave on high for 5 minutes (or heat on the stove). Allow to cool.
  • Chop basil in food processor. Add cooled stock, Parmesan cheese and pine nuts. Whirl until everything is finely chopped and blended.
  • Meanwhile, cook pasta of your choice. Toss sauce with pasta. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Use as a topping for fish, chicken or potatoes also. Makes 4 servings.

LINGUINE WITH CHICKEN AND SPICY PESTO SAUCE



Linguine with Chicken and Spicy Pesto Sauce image

Categories     Chicken     Herb     Pasta     Pepper     Sauté     Summer     Bon Appétit

Yield Serves 4

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1/3-inch-wide strips
3 green onions, thinly sliced
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons minced seeded jalapeño
1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
1/2 cup purchased pesto
12 ounces linguine
Additional chopped fresh cilantro
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add chicken to skillet and sauté until cooked through and beginning to brown, about 3 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer chicken to bowl. Add green onions, 1/3 cup cilantro, pecans, garlic, jalapeño and dried red pepper to same skillet. Sauté until green onions wilt, about 2 minutes. Add pesto, chicken and any accumulated juices; stir to blend. Remove from heat.
  • Meanwhile, cook linguine in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid.
  • Bring sauce to simmer. Add linguine and reserved cooking liquid to sauce and toss to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer to large bowl. Sprinkle with additional cilantro. Serve, passing Parmesan separately.

GRILLED CHICKEN RIGATONI WITH PESTO ALFREDO SAUCE



Grilled Chicken Rigatoni With Pesto Alfredo Sauce image

This is one of my favorites. Great with a crusty loaf of french bread! Would also be tasty with shrimp or scallops instead of the chicken. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. The cooking time is for the rigatoni. I give directions for grilling the chicken with an indoor grill, but you can grill or cook the chicken any way you prefer.

Provided by ChipotleChick

Categories     Chicken Breast

Time 40m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups 2% low-fat milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons flour
6 tablespoons fresh grated parmesan cheese
1/8 teaspoon white pepper (or black)
1/4 cup prepared pesto sauce
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup dry julienned sun-dried tomato
1 tomatoes, chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 lb rigatoni pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt, to taste

Steps:

  • Cook the rigatoni according to package directions. Drain, place back in the pot, and stir in the olive oil (to avoid sticking).
  • Grill the chicken breasts on an indoor grill, 6 minutes per side or until juices run clear. Cut into strips.
  • Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Slowly whisk in the flour until smooth and pasty.
  • Add milk gradually, whisking well after each small addition, then until no clumps can be seen.
  • Add the sundried tomatoes.
  • Heat over medium, whisking constantly, until heated and thick (sauce will thicken the more you cook it).
  • Add the pesto sauce and mix well.
  • Sprinkle the parmesan in, and whisk.
  • Add the crushed garlic,chopped tomato, white (or black) pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  • Remove from heat, and add salt to taste.
  • Pour over rigatoni, mix and serve!

Tips for Making the Best Pesto Sauce:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your pesto.
  • Adjust the ingredients to your taste. If you like a more garlicky pesto, add more garlic. If you want a more nutty flavor, add more pine nuts. If you want a more lemony flavor, add more lemon juice.
  • Don't over-process the pesto. You want the pesto to be chunky, not smooth. If you over-process it, it will lose its flavor and become too oily.
  • Use pesto as a versatile condiment. It can be used on pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and salads. It can also be used as a marinade for chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Conclusion:

Pesto sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in many different dishes. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. With these tips, you can make the best pesto sauce every time.

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