The Perfect Cheese Pairings For Pesto: A Definitive Guide

Pesto is a bright, rich sauce that is traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, cheese, and olive oil. While the classic pairing for pesto is cheese, the type of cheese you choose can vary depending on your personal preference. Whether you're in the mood for something creamy, sharp, or mild, there's a cheese that will complement your pesto.

Mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta are classic pairings with pesto

Mozzarella is a soft, subtle cheese that won't overpower the pesto's flavour. It is a classic pairing with pesto and works especially well in a grilled cheese sandwich, where its mild flavour allows the pesto to shine. Fresh mozzarella is the best option, but shredded mozzarella will also work.

Parmesan is a hard cheese with a rich, nutty flavour. It is a staple of Italian cooking and is commonly used in pesto pasta dishes. It adds a strong flavour to the dish without being overpowering. It is also often used in pesto itself, as one of the traditional ingredients.

Ricotta is a mild, whipped cheese with a milky lightness that pairs beautifully with pesto. It is a classic combination, especially when paired with homemade pesto, as the fresh curds create a dreamy pillow for the spread.

When choosing a cheese to pair with pesto, it's important to consider the other ingredients in the dish. For example, if you're making a pesto pasta with tomatoes or red onions, a soft cheese like mozzarella or goat cheese might be a better choice than a harder, sharper cheese.

Additionally, if you're making a traditional pesto with pine nuts and basil, a harder cheese like Parmesan might be a better choice, whereas if you're making a nut-free version with sunflower seeds, a creamy cheese like ricotta could be a better option.

Brie is a good pairing with pesto as it balances out the spiciness

Pesto is a versatile condiment that can be paired with a variety of cheeses. While there are many options to choose from, Brie stands out as an excellent choice, especially when looking to balance out the spiciness of the pesto.

Brie is a soft cow's milk cheese known for its mild and creamy flavour. It is often served at room temperature with crackers or bread. When paired with pesto, Brie's mild taste can complement the more intense flavours of the pesto, creating a harmonious combination. The creaminess of Brie also helps to balance out the spiciness of the pesto, resulting in a more rounded and pleasant dining experience.

One delicious way to enjoy Brie and pesto together is in a grilled cheese sandwich. The key to success is in the layering. Start by spreading the pesto onto a slice of bread, then add a layer of cheese, such as mozzarella, to prevent the pesto from making the bread greasy or soggy. Add another layer of Brie, and top it off with crispy bacon and sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavour. Finally, close the sandwich with another slice of bread and grill it to perfection.

For a more substantial meal, Brie and pesto can also be combined with chicken. Pesto chicken is a simple and versatile dish that pairs well with Brie. The creamy texture and mild flavour of Brie complement the pesto without overwhelming it. To enhance the flavour even further, consider adding a balsamic glaze or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the chicken. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables and a salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, Brie is an excellent choice for pairing with pesto due to its mild flavour and creamy texture. It helps to balance out the spiciness of the pesto, creating a more nuanced and enjoyable culinary experience. Whether it's in a grilled cheese sandwich or paired with pesto chicken, Brie and pesto make a delightful combination that is sure to please any palate.

Sargento® provolone and pesto make for a great grilled cheese sandwich

Sargento® Provolone is a 100% real, natural cheese with a mild smoky flavor that brings a little taste of Italy to your dining table. It is a creamy and mellow slice of Italian-inspired flavor that makes all your ingredients shine.

Pesto is a bright and rich amalgamation of basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, cheese, and olive oil. It is a versatile condiment that can be used in many ways, and one of the most popular pairings with pesto is cheese.

When it comes to grilled cheese sandwiches, Sargento® Provolone is a perfect choice. The creamy and rich texture of the cheese adds an amazing melt to your sandwich, making it indulgent and cozy. The mild smoky flavor of the provolone pairs beautifully with the earthy and slightly sour flavor of the pesto.

To make a delicious grilled cheese sandwich, simply add a few slices of Sargento® Provolone to your favorite bread, along with a generous spread of pesto. Grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and enjoy! You can also add other ingredients like tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or even some chicken to make it a more filling meal.

So, if you're looking for a tasty and indulgent grilled cheese sandwich, Sargento® provolone and pesto are a match made in heaven!

Feta cheese is a good pairing with pesto chicken

Feta cheese is a great pairing with pesto chicken. This combination is a delicious, easy-to-make, and quick weeknight meal.

Feta is a soft cheese that is usually made from sheep's milk or goat's milk. It has a tangy, rich, and slightly salty flavour that pairs well with the pesto chicken. The saltiness of the feta enhances the flavour of the pesto and chicken, while its creaminess balances out the dish.

When making pesto chicken with feta, you can simply crumble the feta cheese over the cooked chicken. You can also stuff the chicken breasts with a mixture of feta and pesto, wrapping them in prosciutto before baking. This helps keep the chicken moist and juicy, and adds an extra layer of flavour.

To prepare this dish, start by searing the chicken breasts in a skillet to brown them. Then, create a pocket in each breast and fill it with the pesto and feta mixture. Secure the filling with toothpicks and rub any remaining mixture on the outside of the chicken. Bake in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

This dish is perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner, and can also be prepared in advance for dinner parties or midweek meals. It's a versatile dish that can be customised to your taste, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese that goes well with pesto

The salty, sharp flavour of Pecorino Romano pairs well with the other ingredients in pesto, such as garlic and anchovies. The cheese also adds a salty taste to the pesto, so there is no need to add extra salt to the sauce.

Pecorino Romano is a key ingredient in Mamma C's legendary pesto recipe, which also includes fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheeses creates the perfect balance of salty and sharp flavours.

In addition to its use in pesto, Pecorino Romano is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, pizza, meatballs, salads, soups, and stews. It is a popular choice for pasta dishes such as Spaghetti Alla Carbonara, Bucatini All'Amatriciana, and Cacio e Pepe.

When using Pecorino Romano in cooking, it is important to use freshly grated cheese for the best taste and texture. The cheese has a high-fat content and can enhance the taste of sauces, making it a good choice for cheese sauces.

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