So, you’re in the mood for some pesto, but you don’t have the time or energy to make it from scratch.
Don’t worry. Today, we’re here to discuss store-bought pesto options that will satisfy your cravings.
From Mezzetta Basil Pesto Sauce to Filippo Berio Classic Pesto, we’ll explore a range of brands to find the perfect one for you.
So, sit back, relax, and prepare to enjoy your next meal with a jar of delicious, ready-to-use pesto.
Key Takeaways
- Mezzetta Basil Pesto Sauce and Filippo Berio Classic Pesto are recommended for their traditional Italian flavors and high-quality ingredients.
- Whole Foods Market Plant-Based Tomato Pesto is a flavorful vegan option that can be used in a variety of dishes.
- Buitoni Pesto with Basil is a versatile refrigerated sauce that has received positive customer reviews for its taste and freshness.
- Prego Basil Pesto Sauce and Bear Pond Farm Premium Basil Pesto offer unique flavors and can be used as a base for other recipes, although some negative reviews have been mentioned for Prego sauce.
Which is The 10 Best Pesto Store-Bought Brands You Can Buy?
When it comes to store-bought pesto, there are a few options that you should consider.
Mezzetta Basil Pesto Sauce offers a flavorful option.
Filippo Berio Classic Pesto is another choice known for its taste.
And if you’re looking for a plant-based option, Whole Foods Market Plant-Based Tomato Pesto is a delicious alternative.
With options like Buitoni Pesto with Basil and Prego Basil Pesto Sauce also available, you’ll have plenty of choices for your next pesto fix.
1. Whole Foods Market Basil Pesto
Indulge in the flavors of Whole Foods Market Basil Pesto, a choice that caters to those seeking authentic Italian taste and quality.
Made with Italian cheeses, this best store-bought pesto is sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
Whole Foods Market is known for its high standards and commitment to quality, and this basil pesto is no exception. It meets quality standards and prohibits over 100 ingredients, ensuring that you’re getting a product that’s both delicious and trustworthy.
Customers have praised the fresh and delicious taste of this pesto, with some even comparing it to homemade. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as tilapia or gluten-free pasta.
However, there have been mixed reviews regarding the flavor, with some noting a strong nutty taste and others finding it too bitter compared to other brands.
Best For: Those who appreciate high-quality, authentic Italian pesto and are looking for a convenient option.
What’s So Great
- Made with Italian cheeses for an authentic flavor.
- Meets quality standards and prohibits over 100 ingredients, ensuring trust and quality.
- Pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as tilapia or gluten-free pasta.
Good to Know
- Some customers have noted a strong nutty taste, which may not appeal to everyone.
2. Barilla Rustic Basil Pesto Sauce
For those who want a convenient and flavorful Italian pesto sauce, Barilla Rustic Basil Pesto Sauce is the top choice of store-bought.
Imported from Italy, this 6.5 oz. jar of pesto is made with Italian basil and freshly grated Italian cheeses. The high-quality, non-GMO ingredients ensure a delicious and authentic taste.
This versatile sauce can be used as a pasta sauce, pizza sauce, and more, adding Italian flavor to everyday dishes. It pairs perfectly with pasta, pizza, sandwiches, fish, chicken, and veggies, enhancing the taste of a wide variety of dishes.
Some customers find it salty, while others love its fresh and flavorful taste. Considered the best jarred pesto by some, Barilla Rustic Basil Pesto Sauce offers a convenient option for those who prefer not to make their own pesto from scratch.
However, the price may vary, with some customers finding it a good deal and others considering it expensive. Availability may also be an issue for some, with occasional instances of the sauce being out of stock or a desire for a larger size option.
Overall, Barilla Rustic Basil Pesto Sauce is a reliable and tasty choice for any Italian pesto lover.
Best For: Italian food lovers looking for a convenient and flavorful pesto sauce.
What’s So Great
- Made with Italian basil and freshly grated Italian cheeses for an authentic taste
- Versatile sauce that can be used on pasta, pizza, sandwiches, fish, chicken, and veggies
- Positive customer reviews on taste and flavor
Good to Know
- Some customers find it salty
3. Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce
The Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce is a versatile and authentic Italian spread that will transport you to the sunny hills of Italy with its burst of aromatic goodness.
This ready-to-use store-bought sauce and spread combines the vibrant flavors of basil and Parmesan cheese, creating a creamy texture that adds flavor to any dish.
Whether you mix it with hot pasta or use it as a spread on crackers, meat, or pizza, this pesto sauce is sure to please.
The high sodium content may be a downside for some, but customers rave about the authentic taste and small jar size.
While it may not compare to homemade pesto, the Classico Signature Recipes Traditional Basil Pesto Sauce is a convenient and delicious option for those craving a taste of Italy in their own kitchen.
Best For: Those looking for a convenient and authentic Italian pesto sauce to add flavor to their dishes.
What’s So Great
- Authentic taste with a burst of basil and Parmesan flavors
- Creamy texture that adds flavor to any dish
- Versatile and ready-to-use sauce and spread
Good to Know
- High sodium content
4. Seggiano Fresh Basil Pesto
If you’re searching for a store-bought pesto that captures the essence of fresh basil, Seggiano Fresh Basil Pesto is a great choice.
Made from fresh ligurian basil grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, this pesto showcases its high quality and commitment to using natural ingredients.
The leaves are preserved in olive oil to ensure a burst of flavor in every spoonful.
Customers love its versatility, using it on pasta, pizza, salads, sandwiches, and even turning it into a salad dressing by adding avocado oil.
Despite being slightly more expensive than other jarred pestos, customers still find it worth the price. With its homemade taste and enthusiastic recommendations, Seggiano Fresh Basil Pesto is a must-try for any pesto lover.
Best For: Pesto lovers looking for a high-quality store-bought option that captures the essence of fresh basil.
What’s So Great
- Made from fresh ligurian basil grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
- Versatile, can be used on various dishes like pasta, tofu, pickles, salads, sandwiches, and vegetables.
- Preserved in olive oil to ensure maximum flavor.
Good to Know
- Slightly higher price point compared to other jarred pestos.
5. Bear Pond Farm Premium Basil Pesto
A game-changing option for pesto enthusiasts, Bear Pond Farm Premium Basil Pesto stands out as the ultimate store-bought choice.
Made with organic herbs and ingredients, this store-bought pesto offers a fresh and vibrant flavor that’s hard to beat. The use of a non-GMO oil blend ensures that you’re getting the highest quality ingredients.
What sets this pesto apart is the inclusion of imported sheep’s milk Pecorino Romano cheese, adding a unique and irresistible tanginess.
It’s also worth mentioning that this pesto is nut-free and gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with dietary restrictions.
The positive reviews speak for themselves, with customers raving about the taste and flavor. Some even mention that it’s less salty than most pestos, making it a versatile choice for a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re topping pasta, pizza, sandwiches, or toast, or using it as a dip for chips, Bear Pond Farm Premium Basil Pesto is sure to elevate your culinary creations.
Best For: Pesto enthusiasts looking for a high-quality and flavorful store-bought option.
What’s So Great
- Made with organic herbs and ingredients
- Non-GMO oil blend
- Nut-free and gluten-free
Good to Know
- One reviewer finds the taste to be too flat
6. Prego Basil Pesto Sauce
For those seeking a delicious and versatile store-bought pesto, Prego Basil Pesto Sauce is the choice. This 8 oz jar features the flavors of Romano cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt, without any artificial colors, high fructose corn syrup, or added MSG.
Prego Basil Pesto Sauce is versatile and can be used in various ways. It complements pasta sauce perfectly and can also be used as a base for other recipes.
Additionally, it makes a great addition to chicken dishes.
Made with quality ingredients, this pesto delivers a delicious taste. The basil flavor is prominent and pairs wonderfully with pasta.
Customers have praised Prego Basil Pesto Sauce for its value, quick shipping, and freshness date. However, some found it to be too salty or sour.
Prego offers a range of other sauces, making it a reliable brand for all your sauce needs.
Best For: Pasta lovers and those looking for a convenient and flavorful pesto sauce.
What’s So Great
- Made with quality ingredients and delivers a delicious pesto taste
- Versatile and can be used as a base for various recipes
- Complements pasta sauce and chicken dishes nicely
Good to Know
- Some customers found it to be too salty or sour
7. Buitoni Pesto with Basil
When it comes to finding the store-bought option for pesto, Buitoni Pesto with Basil is a flavorful and versatile choice that will delight even the most discerning palates.
Made with high-quality and non-GMO ingredients, this 7 oz tub of Buitoni Pesto with Basil contains a blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, walnuts, extra virgin olive oil, and aged Parmesan and Romano cheeses.
The result is a fresh and green sauce that brings out the nice flavors of Parmesan and pine nuts.
It can be used in a variety of ways, such as a pasta sauce, pizza sauce, dip, or spread. Customers have praised its taste, mentioning that it’s nicely balanced and not bitter or medicinal tasting.
Some have even compared it to what they get at a good restaurant. However, it’s worth noting that the sauce contains pine nuts and walnuts, so it may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.
Buitoni Pesto with Basil is a top choice for those looking for a convenient and delicious pesto option.
Best For: Those who are looking for a convenient and delicious pesto option that can be used in a variety of ways, such as pasta sauce, pizza sauce, dip, or spread.
What’s So Great
- Made with high-quality and non-GMO ingredients
- Versatile sauce that can be used in various dishes
- Nice flavors of Parmesan and pine nuts
Good to Know
- Contains pine nuts and walnuts, so not suitable for nut allergies
8. Whole Foods Market Plant-Based Tomato Pesto
The Whole Foods Market Plant-Based Tomato Pesto is a flavorful and versatile store-bought option for those seeking a delicious and plant-based pesto sauce.
This 6.7 oz jar is filled with a sauce that’s free from hydrogenated fats and high fructose corn syrup, making it a healthier choice.
The pesto has a tomato-y and basil-y taste with a hint of cheesiness, adding a unique twist to traditional pesto flavors.
Some customers found the size of the jar to be small, but the sauce is concentrated, and a little goes a long way.
It can be used on various dishes like vegan ravioli and cauliflower gnocchi, adding a burst of flavor.
The Whole Foods Market Plant-Based Tomato Pesto isn’t only enjoyed by vegans but also by non-vegans who appreciate its taste and versatility.
So, whether you’re looking to add a punch of flavor to your veggie wraps, pasta, or pizza, this pesto sauce is certainly worth a try.
Best For: Vegans and non-vegans looking for a flavorful and versatile plant-based pesto sauce.
What’s So Great
- Delicious tomato-y and basil-y flavor with a hint of cheesiness
- Can be used on various dishes like vegan ravioli, cauliflower gnocchi, veggie wraps, pasta, and pizza
- Concentrated sauce, so a little goes a long way
Good to Know
- Some customers found the size of the jar to be small
9. Filippo Berio Classic Pesto
If you’re searching for a store-bought pesto that captures the vibrant flavor of freshly picked basil, try Filippo Berio Classic Pesto. This authentic Genovese recipe is made in Liguria, Italy, where pesto originated.
It’s bursting with the flavor of freshly picked basil, giving it a delicious and aromatic taste. Made by crushing fresh ingredients with a mortar and pestle, this pesto is made with basil, Grana Padano cheese, cashews, Pecorino Romano cheese, pine nuts, and Filippo Berio Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
It’s perfect for adding flavor to pastas, salads, sandwiches, soups, hummus, and dips. However, some customers have expressed disappointment with the size of the 6.7-ounce glass jar.
Despite this, Filippo Berio Classic Pesto is still a top choice for those seeking a high-quality store-bought pesto.
Best For: Anyone looking for a high-quality store-bought pesto with the authentic flavor of freshly picked basil.
What’s So Great
- Made in Liguria, Italy with an authentic Genovese recipe.
- Bursting with the flavor of freshly picked basil.
- Versatile and can be used in marinades, pasta sauces, dips, soups, and gravies.
Good to Know
- Some customers have expressed disappointment with the size of the 6.7-ounce glass jar.
10. Mezzetta Basil Pesto Sauce
For those in search of the store-bought pesto, Mezzetta Basil Pesto Sauce is a standout choice. Made with a classic Italian recipe for Pesto alla Genovese, this pesto sauce boasts flavors that highlight the taste of fresh basil.
With the balance of extra-virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic, this sauce brings deliciousness to any dish.
Mezzetta Basil Pesto Sauce isn’t only convenient and hassle-free, but it also offers versatile pairing options.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your pasta, grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables, this pesto sauce won’t disappoint. Plus, it’s made by Mezzetta, a brand known for its high-quality products in glass jars.
So why settle for subpar pesto when you can indulge in the flavors of Mezzetta Basil Pesto Sauce?
Best For: Those who are looking for a convenient and versatile pre-made pesto sauce with flavors.
What’s So Great
- Made with a classic Italian recipe for Pesto alla Genovese
- Highlighting the flavor of fresh basil, with extra-virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic
- Versatile pairing options with pasta, grilled meats, fish, roasted vegetables, and more
Good to Know
- Some find it not authentic enough, too oily, and lacking in strong basil smell and color
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does store-bought pesto typically last in the refrigerator once opened?
Once opened, store-bought pesto typically lasts for about one to two weeks in the refrigerator. It’s important to check the expiration date on the packaging and store it properly to ensure its freshness. To extend its shelf life, make sure to tightly seal the container after each use and avoid cross-contamination with other food.
If you prefer homemade alternatives, there are many delicious pesto recipes available online that you can try.
Are store-bought pesto products suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions, such as being gluten-free or vegan?
Are store-bought pesto products suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You’ll be thrilled to discover the wide range of gluten-free alternatives available on the market.
And for all the vegans out there, rejoice! There are plenty of vegan-friendly options that will satisfy your pesto cravings.
Plus, most store-bought pesto products have allergen labeling, making it easier for those with specific dietary needs.
Looking for a healthier option? Check out the low sodium varieties or go for the organic pesto for a more wholesome choice.
Can store-bought pesto be frozen for later use?
When freezing store-bought pesto for later use, there are a few techniques to consider. Properly stored, frozen pesto can have a prolonged shelf life. To store pesto, transfer it into an airtight container or ice cube trays for individual portions.
Optimal storage conditions include keeping it in the freezer at a constant temperature. When reheating frozen pesto, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or use a microwave on low power.
Are there any preservatives or artificial ingredients commonly found in store-bought pesto?
When it comes to store-bought pesto, you might be wondering about the preservatives and artificial ingredients commonly found in them. Some brands offer preservative-free options, which are a healthier choice. However, many store-bought pestos contain common artificial additives like preservatives, colorings, and flavorings. This is where the natural vs. processed ingredient debate comes into play.
Homemade pesto, on the other hand, allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any health concerns associated with store-bought varieties.
What are some creative ways to use store-bought pesto beyond pasta dishes?
Looking to get creative with your store-bought pesto? Pesto inspired appetizers are a great way to start, like bruschetta topped with a dollop of pesto.
For a refreshing twist, try pesto infused salad dressings that will elevate any salad.
Want to add some zing to your grilled meats? Marinate them in pesto for a burst of flavor.
Pesto stuffed vegetables make for a tasty and vibrant side dish.
And don’t forget about pesto topped pizzas for a mouthwatering treat!
The possibilities are endless with store-bought pesto.
