10 Best Pesto Sauces (Classico, Whole Foods, and More)
Whether you're pairing it with your favorite pasta or drizzling it over grilled chicken, choosing the right pesto can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. In this guide, we’ll explore key factors to consider when selecting pesto sauces, including the quality of basil, the balance of ingredients, and the authenticity of Genovese-style recipes.
We'll also provide a ranking of the best pesto sauces on the market, ensuring you find a top-notch option that suits your culinary needs. From classic basil-infused recipes to modern twists, our list highlights the best products to enhance your pasta dishes and chicken creations. Let’s dive into the essentials for making an informed and delicious choice!
Quick List - Top Pesto Sauce
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What Is Pesto and How Is It Used?
Pesto is highly versatile and can be used in various culinary applications. It is commonly tossed with pasta, where its rich flavor clings to the noodles, creating a simple yet delicious dish. Additionally, pesto can be used as a spread on sandwiches and wraps, a topping for pizzas, a dressing for salads, or a marinade for meats and vegetables. The sauce's fresh, herbaceous flavor can enhance numerous dishes, making it a staple in many kitchens. Beyond its culinary uses, pesto is also noted for its health benefits. The ingredients, particularly the basil, olive oil, and nuts, are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, contributing to overall health and well-being.
How to Choose a Pesto Sauce - Buying Guide
Here are 3 points to check when choosing the best Pesto Sauce for you.
Consider Ingredients That Meet Your Desired Flavor Profile and Taste Preferences
Choose Pesto Made With Fresh Basil if You Enjoy Fresh, Herbaceous Flavors in Your Dishes
Fresh basil's essential oils not only enhance flavor but also provide antioxidant properties, adding to the nutritional value of the pesto. Fresh basil offers a bright, lively taste that can elevate simple recipes, bringing a touch of gourmet quality to everyday meals. This fresh taste is particularly appreciated in cold dishes like pasta salads or as a finishing touch on grilled vegetables and meats.
Pick Pesto Made With Extra Virgin Olive Oil if You Are Concerned About Quality
Extra virgin olive oil is also known for its heart-healthy properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and rich flavor, making it a superior choice for those prioritizing health without compromising on taste. Its robust, fruity flavor enhances the overall taste profile of pesto, providing a depth and richness that other oils cannot match. The anti-inflammatory effects of EVOO, attributed to compounds like oleocanthal, have been documented to have similar effects to ibuprofen in reducing inflammation.
Opt for Pesto With Pine Nuts for a Traditional Recipe, or Cashews for a More Economical Option
For those who prefer a different texture or flavor, cashews offer a more economical and accessible alternative to pine nuts while still providing a nutty flavor and creamy texture. Cashews are rich in fiber, protein and healthy fats. The inclusion of cashews can make pesto not only more affordable but also more nutritious, catering to health-conscious consumers.
For a Savoury, Umami Depth, Select Pesto With Authentic Parmesan or Pecorino Cheese
Choosing between Parmesan and Pecorino allows individuals to tailor their pesto to their specific taste preferences. Parmesan's delicate and slightly sweet flavor profile blends seamlessly with the fresh basil and olive oil, creating a harmonious and versatile sauce suitable for various dishes. In contrast, Pecorino's intense and salty flavor can elevate the pesto, adding a zesty kick that pairs well with hearty pastas and robust dishes. Both cheeses contribute to the authentic taste and texture of traditional Italian pesto, ensuring a high-quality and satisfying culinary experience.
Check the Nutritional Information for Sodium Levels if You Are Prioritizing Health
The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium intake to no more than 2,300 mg a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults. Many prepared foods, including pesto, can contribute a substantial portion of this limit in just a single serving.
Select Gluten-Free, Vegan or Dairy-Free Options if You Have Special Dietary Restrictions
Selecting gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan options ensures that the sauce meets specific dietary needs. For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, a gluten-free pesto eliminates the risk of adverse reactions caused by gluten-containing ingredients. Similarly, those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies can enjoy dairy-free pesto without digestive discomfort or allergic responses. Vegan pesto, which avoids all animal products, caters to those following a plant-based diet for health, ethical, or environmental reasons.
Vegan and dairy-free pestos are often made with alternative ingredients that still provide rich flavors and nutritional benefits. For instance, nutritional yeast can be used in place of cheese to impart a cheesy flavor without the dairy, while nuts and seeds can provide the creamy texture typically achieved with cheese.
10 Best Pesto Sauces Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Amount | Servings | Calories | Sodium | Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Vegan | Gluten Free | Organic | |||||
1 | Classico Classico｜Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce & Spread | | Easy to Use in Recipes | 8.1 oz. | 4 servings | 230 calories | 590mg | |||||
2 | Prego® Prego｜Creamy Parmesan Pesto Sauce | | A Burst of Flavor and a Creamy Texture | 14.5 oz. | 7 servings | 60 calories | 370mg | |||||
3 | Whole Foods Market Basil Pesto, 0.25 cup | | No Added Sugars | 6.5 oz. | 3.5 servings | 240 calories | 430mg | |||||
4 | Campbell Soup Company Prego｜Creamy Basil Pesto Sauce | | A Convenient Choice for Family Dinners | 14.5 oz. | 7 servings | 60 calories | 340mg | |||||
5 | Amore Amore｜Pesto Paste | | A Convenient Format for Easy Portion Control | 2.8 oz. | 13 servings | 20 calories | 100mg | |||||
6 | Filippo Berio Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce | | Gives a Kick to a Variety of Dishes From Salads to Chicken | 6.7 oz. | 3 servings | 290 calories | 755mg | |||||
7 | Seggiano Raw Basil Pesto | | A Versatile, Vegan and Gluten-Free Option | 7.1 oz. | 3 servings | 340 calories | 570mg | |||||
8 | Compagnia Sanremo PDO basil pesto | | Crafted with Certified Protected Designation of Origin Basil | 6.7 oz. | 6 servings | 135 calories | 410mg | |||||
9 | Terrapin Ridge Farms Pesto Aioli Squeeze | | Ideal for Keto and Low-Carb Diets | 8 oz. | 16 servings | 70 calories | 110mg | |||||
10 | Barilla Pesto Sauce Variety Pack | | Rich and Versatile Pesto Sauces for Every Meal | 6.5, 6.2 oz. | 3 servings | 190, 300 calories | 600, 760mg | |||||
Easy to Use in Recipes
Available in an 8.1-ounce jar, Classico Traditional Basil Pesto is also gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with dietary restrictions. This ready-to-use sauce is convenient for quick meals and can be easily incorporated into both traditional Italian recipes and modern culinary creations. For the best taste and quality, it's recommended to refrigerate the jar after opening. With its blend of classic ingredients and ease of use, Classico Traditional Basil Pesto is a staple for any kitchen, offering a taste that appeals to the whole family.
| Amount | 8.1 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Calories | 230 calories |
| Sodium | 590mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
Prego® Prego ｜ Creamy Parmesan Pesto Sauce
A Burst of Flavor and a Creamy Texture
Ideal for busy weeknights, Prego Creamy Parmesan Pesto allows you to create delicious, crowd-pleasing meals in minutes. It’s made with high-quality ingredients, including Parmesan cheese and basil, ensuring a rich and authentic taste. Whether you're whipping up a quick pasta dinner or experimenting with new recipes like pesto mac & cheese or creamy pesto chicken sandwiches, this sauce is designed to add a burst of flavor and a creamy texture that everyone will love.
| Amount | 14.5 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 7 servings |
| Calories | 60 calories |
| Sodium | 370mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
No Added Sugars
This basil pesto is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of dietary fiber per serving. The careful selection of ingredients ensures a fresh and vibrant taste, making it an excellent addition to pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip for your favorite snacks. Whole Foods Market prides itself on maintaining high-quality standards, ensuring that each jar of basil pesto meets the expectations of health-conscious consumers.
| Amount | 6.5 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 3.5 servings |
| Calories | 240 calories |
| Sodium | 430mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
Campbell Soup CompanyPrego ｜ Creamy Basil Pesto Sauce
A Convenient Choice for Family Dinners
Each 14.5 oz jar of Prego Creamy Basil Pesto is designed to serve about seven portions, making it a convenient choice for family dinners. The sauce is free from high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors, ensuring a more natural and wholesome addition to your dishes. Nutritionally, it provides a balanced profile with 60 calories per serving, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight meal or a special weekend feast, Prego Creamy Basil Pesto promises to deliver exceptional taste and creamy goodness.
| Amount | 14.5 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 7 servings |
| Calories | 60 calories |
| Sodium | 340mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
A Convenient Format for Easy Portion Control
Amore Pesto Paste offers a convenient and delicious way to add the authentic taste of Italian basil pesto to any dish. Made with high-quality ingredients including fresh basil, sunflower oil, extra virgin olive oil, pine nuts, and garlic, this paste delivers a rich and fresh flavor profile. The 2.8 oz tube design ensures the product stays fresh and allows for easy portion control, making it perfect for adding just the right amount to pastas, pizzas, meats, and vegetables.
This versatile pesto paste is vegan and GMO-free, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. It's also an excellent option for quick and easy meal preparation, whether you're tossing it with cold pasta and cherry tomatoes for a summer salad or adding it to a sandwich for a burst of flavor. Produced in Italy, Amore Pesto Paste captures the essence of traditional Italian cuisine in a modern, convenient format.
| Amount | 2.8 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 13 servings |
| Calories | 20 calories |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
Gives a Kick to a Variety of Dishes From Salads to Chicken
This pesto is not only delicious but also convenient. Available in 190g glass jars, it can be easily stored at room temperature before opening and should be refrigerated once opened, with a shelf life of up to two weeks. Packed with 487 kcal per 100g, it contains protein, carbohydrates, and a high content of healthy fats. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to add a gourmet touch to their meals while maintaining a balanced diet.
| Amount | 6.7 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 3 servings |
| Calories | 290 calories |
| Sodium | 755mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
A Versatile, Vegan and Gluten-Free Option
This vegan and gluten-free pesto is versatile and can be used in various culinary applications, from pasta and soups to dips and dressings for fish, chicken, or vegetables. Its high-quality ingredients and traditional production methods have garnered it a loyal following, often described as the "king of pestos" for its superior taste and quality. Seggiano's dedication to natural, sustainable farming and careful ingredient selection makes this pesto not only delicious but also a healthy choice for any diet.
| Amount | 7.1 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 3 servings |
| Calories | 340 calories |
| Sodium | 570mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
Compagnia Sanremo PDO basil pesto
Crafted with Certified Protected Designation of Origin Basil
Compagnia Sanremo's PDO Basil Pesto is a premium pesto sauce that celebrates the authentic flavors of Ligurian cuisine. Crafted with certified Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) basil, this pesto ensures the highest quality and authenticity. The basil is carefully blended with extra virgin olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, pine nuts, garlic, and sea salt to create a rich, aromatic sauce that enhances any dish it accompanies. The dedication to traditional methods and natural ingredients is evident in every spoonful, making it a gourmet choice for pesto lovers.
This pesto is perfect for a variety of culinary applications, from tossing with pasta and drizzling over roasted vegetables to using as a spread for sandwiches and enhancing the flavor of soups and stews. The commitment to using only the finest ingredients without preservatives ensures that every jar delivers a fresh and vibrant taste. Ideal for those who appreciate authentic Italian flavors, Compagnia Sanremo's PDO Basil Pesto brings a touch of Ligurian tradition to your kitchen, making everyday meals extraordinary.
| Amount | 6.7 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | 135 calories |
| Sodium | 410mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
Terrapin Ridge FarmsPesto Aioli Squeeze
Ideal for Keto and Low-Carb Diets
This 8 oz squeeze bottle makes it easy to add a gourmet touch to your meals. Whether you're preparing a pasta salad, caprese skewers, or simply looking to enhance the flavor of your scrambled eggs, the Pesto Aioli Squeeze offers a convenient and delicious solution. With a commitment to high-quality ingredients, Terrapin Ridge Farms ensures that their pesto aioli will become a staple in your kitchen, elevating your everyday dishes with minimal effort.
| Amount | 8 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 16 servings |
| Calories | 70 calories |
| Sodium | 110mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
BarillaPesto Sauce Variety Pack
Rich and Versatile Pesto Sauces for Every Meal
These pesto sauces come in 6.5 oz jars, making them a convenient choice for quick meals and gourmet dishes alike. It is suitable for various dietary preferences, being free from fish and soy. The natural basil flavor shines through, complemented by the unique addition of cashews and potato flakes for a creamy consistency. Whether you're preparing a classic pasta dish or experimenting with new recipes, Barilla Rustic Basil Pesto Sauce is a versatile and delicious option to keep in your pantry.
| Amount | 6.5, 6.2 oz. |
|---|---|
| Servings | 3 servings |
| Calories | 190, 300 calories |
| Sodium | 600, 760mg |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| Vegan | |
| Gluten Free | |
| Organic |
Frequently Asked Questions - Pesto Sauce
If you're new to cooking with pesto sauce, you may have some questions. We've compiled some answers to common internet queries about pesto sauce.
How long does pesto sauce last in the fridge?
How long pesto sauce lasts after opening can depend on the product. Many say a couple of days to a week if stored properly. It's always best to follow the storage directions as labeled on the product and to check the best-by date. If opened pesto sauce seems to look strange or has an odor, it's probably best to throw it out.
What goes well with pesto sauce?
Pesto sauce is surprisingly versatile as an ingredient. It's not just for pasta. Pesto chicken is a popular recipe to use it with. You can also spread it on pizzas, flatbreads, and sandwiches. Drizzle it over salads or mix it into other sauces and dressings like ranch or vinaigrette. Some recipes even mix it with hummus and yogurt to create a vibrant flavor.
Top 5 Pesto Sauce
No. 1: Classico｜Classico｜Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce & Spread
No. 2: Prego® ｜Prego｜Creamy Parmesan Pesto Sauce
No. 3: Whole Foods Market｜Basil Pesto, 0.25 cup
No. 4: Campbell Soup Company｜Prego｜Creamy Basil Pesto Sauce
No. 5: Amore｜Amore｜Pesto Paste
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.