Frederic Melton
Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to sandwiches. While the traditional recipe calls for basil, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese, some people substitute these ingredients based on their preferences or what they have on hand. One common substitution is using cheddar cheese instead of parmesan. While some people enjoy the taste of pesto made with cheddar, others find it unappealing. Ultimately, the decision to use cheddar in pesto comes down to personal preference.
Would pesto be gross with cheddar cheese?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Some sources suggest that pesto with cheddar cheese would be tasty, while others disagree. |
| Preparation | Pesto with cheddar can be prepared by mixing in the cheese at the end. |
| Texture | Adding the cheese at the end gives the pesto a more rustic look and extra texture. |
| Lactose Intolerance | Cheddar is a suitable alternative for lactose-intolerant people. |
| Cost | Cheddar is a more frugal option than parmesan. |
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What You'll Learn
Pesto with cheddar cheese can be used in toasties, pasta, or as a drizzle
Pesto with cheddar cheese is a versatile combination that can be used in several dishes. While some people may be hesitant to try this unconventional pairing, it can be a delicious and cost-effective alternative to traditional pesto. Here are some ways to use pesto with cheddar cheese:
Toasties
Pesto and cheddar cheese toasties, or grilled cheese sandwiches, are a popular choice. The pesto adds a flavourful twist to the classic grilled cheese. To make this, simply spread pesto on a slice of bread, top it with shredded cheddar cheese, and place another slice of bread on top. Butter the outside of the sandwich and cook it on a skillet until golden brown. For an extra punch of flavour, add sun-dried tomatoes or fresh slices of tomato.
Pasta
Pesto with cheddar cheese can also be used as a sauce for pasta. The combination of pesto and cheddar creates a flavoursome and creamy sauce that coats the pasta. To make this dish, prepare the pesto with cheddar cheese, mix it with cooked pasta, and add vegetables or other desired ingredients. This dish can be served hot or cold, making it a quick and easy meal option.
Drizzle
Pesto with cheddar cheese can also be thinned out and used as a drizzle or salad dressing. By adding a bit more extra virgin olive oil, the pesto becomes a delicious topping for fish, poultry, or salad. This is a great way to add flavour to grilled or baked dishes, giving them a tasty, cheesy kick.
While some may prefer the traditional combination of pesto with parmesan or pine nuts, pesto with cheddar cheese offers a unique and budget-friendly option. It is a versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavour of various dishes, making it a creative choice for home cooks.
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Pesto is usually made with basil, pine nuts, and parmesan
Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including different combinations of leafy greens, nuts, and cheeses. While traditional pesto is usually made with basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan, some people opt to use other types of cheese, such as cheddar, in their pesto recipes.
There are several recipes available online for pesto made with cheddar cheese, often paired with basil and walnuts. This combination is said to be more affordable than traditional pesto ingredients without compromising on flavor. Some people even prefer the taste of pesto made with walnuts and cheddar.
To make basil and walnut pesto with cheddar, you can use a pestle and mortar or a food processor. The ingredients typically include basil, lemon zest, walnuts, garlic, salt and pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, and grated cheddar cheese. The basil, lemon zest, walnuts, and garlic are chopped finely and crushed in the pestle with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. The grated cheddar and olive oil are then mixed in at the end.
Some people recommend toasting the walnuts before adding them to the pesto to bring out their natural oils and intensify their flavor. However, it is important to let the toasted nuts cool down before adding them to the food processor, as the heat can melt the cheese and cause the pesto to become gummy.
While pesto with cheddar may be a tasty alternative to traditional pesto, it is important to note that the strong flavor of basil pesto may pair better with mild to medium-flavored cheeses. Additionally, if using aged, very flavorful cheddar, it may work better in the pesto than a younger, milder variety.
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Aged cheddar with strong flavour can be used in pesto
Pesto is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including different types of cheese. While traditional pesto is made with basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan, you can experiment with different herbs, nuts, and cheeses to create your own unique pesto.
When it comes to using cheddar cheese in pesto, some people have expressed doubts about its compatibility with the other ingredients. However, others have successfully used cheddar in their pesto recipes, especially when combined with other ingredients like basil, parsley, walnuts, and cream cheese.
Aged cheddar with a strong flavour can be used in pesto. The key to making it work is to ensure that the cheddar has a strong enough flavour to stand out in the pesto. This can be achieved by using an aged cheddar, which tends to have a more pronounced flavour than younger cheddars. Additionally, toasting the nuts before adding them to the food processor can help to intensify their flavour and create a more balanced pesto.
When using aged cheddar in pesto, it is recommended to grate the cheese finely and mix it in with olive oil at the end. This ensures that the cheese is well incorporated into the pesto and adds a creamy texture. The resulting pesto can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, toasties, and as a drizzle over fish or poultry.
While some people may prefer the traditional combination of basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan, using aged cheddar with a strong flavour can be a delicious and cost-effective alternative. It is worth experimenting with different ingredients and adjusting the proportions to create a pesto that suits your taste preferences.
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Spinach, walnut, and cheddar can be used to make pesto
Spinach, walnut, and cheddar can be used to make a tasty pesto. This combination is versatile, easy to make, and can be used in a variety of dishes.
To make this pesto, you can use a pestle and mortar or a food processor. If using a pestle and mortar, it is recommended to chop the ingredients finely first. You can put everything but the grated cheddar and olive oil in the pestle and mortar, crushing until the desired consistency is reached. Then, mix in the cheese and olive oil. If using a food processor, simply add all the pesto ingredients and blitz until blended well and the walnuts are broken down. You can add more olive oil if you want to thin out the pesto.
The spinach and walnuts are the star ingredients in this pesto, providing a vibrant colour, a nutty texture, and a hearty flavour. The cheddar adds a sharp, tangy taste that complements the other ingredients. This pesto can be used in sandwiches, pasta dishes, as a dip, or even as a pizza topping.
While traditional pesto is made with basil and pine nuts, these ingredients are not necessary for a delicious pesto. Spinach and walnut are great substitutes, and using cheddar instead of parmesan can be a more affordable option without compromising on flavour. This pesto is also a clever way to sneak some extra greens into your diet without overpowering the dish.
So, if you're looking for a quick, versatile, and tasty pesto, give spinach, walnut, and cheddar a try!
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Pesto with cheddar can be frozen for future use
There are two main ways to freeze pesto. The first is to freeze it in larger amounts (1/2 to 1 cup) that can be used for pasta dishes or as a topping for grilled salmon. The second is to freeze it in smaller portions (1 to 2 tablespoons) that can be used as a flavour enhancer in dishes like soups, salad dressings, or rice.
To freeze pesto in smaller portions, put spoonfuls of the pesto into ice cube trays and place them in the freezer until they are solid. Then, transfer the frozen pesto cubes to sealable plastic bags. When you want to use the pesto, simply toss a cube or two into a hot dish, or defrost and spread it onto sandwiches.
To freeze pesto in larger amounts, portion out the pesto into containers that will be enough for one meal. Pour a thick layer of olive oil on top to seal the pesto and prevent air from seeping in. Then, place the containers in the freezer. When you want to use the pesto, thaw it in the refrigerator or microwave and add it to your dish.
Whether you are freezing a small or large batch, it is recommended to use the frozen pesto within 6 months.
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Frequently asked questions
Pesto with cheddar cheese can be nice, but it depends on personal preference. Some people enjoy the versatility of pesto with cheddar, while others prefer the traditional combination of basil, pine nuts and parmesan.
Pesto with cheddar cheese can be used in various recipes, including pasta dishes, toasties, pizza toppings, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Using cheddar cheese in pesto can be a more affordable option than traditional ingredients like parmesan and pine nuts. It is also a good option for those who are lactose intolerant, as hard cheeses like cheddar contain very low levels of lactose.
To make pesto with cheddar cheese, you can combine fresh leafy greens like basil or spinach, walnuts or other nuts, grated cheddar cheese, olive oil, and seasonings like garlic, salt, and pepper.
