15 Easy Pesto Appetizers You Can Make Right At Home

Pesto is more than just a tasty addition to pasta dishes and pizzas – it can also be used to elevate the flavor of appetizers. The rich, herbaceous sauce is made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Italian cheeses, which come together to create a harmonious balance of flavors. When paired with other ingredients, pesto can add depth, brightness, and a touch of brininess to any dish. And the best part?

Many pesto appetizer recipes are quick and easy to make, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or impromptu get-togethers. For instance, #12 Pesto Shrimp Skewers offer a succulent and flavorful option that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Tomato Pesto Appetizers

Tomato Pesto Appetizers

At many Italian restaurants, this delectable dip is a staple starter that whets the appetite. When served with fluffy muffins and mozzarella cheese-filled pastry, baked to perfection, its vibrant flavors shine through. A key step in preparing this dish is to divide the dough into 10 biscuits, then separate them into two equal rounds.

Pesto Cheesy Bread

Pesto Cheesy Bread

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Pesto Cheesy Bread, perfect as an appetizer or accompanying your favorite pasta dishes. This elevated take on classic garlic bread boasts a harmonious balance of garlicky goodness and melted cheesy bliss. The star of the show is the combination of creamy mozzarella and nutty parmesan cheeses, perfectly complemented by store-bought or homemade pesto.

This versatile sauce can be drizzled over the bread for an added layer of flavor or served as a dipping accompaniment. To prepare this effortless yet impressive dish, start by slicing two large hoagie rolls into bite-sized morsels, leaving them attached in the middle. Next, apply a base coating of pesto to the bread, followed by a generous sprinkling of cheese and a trip to the oven for 15-18 minutes of baking.

Tarte Au Soleil With Pesto

Tarte Au Soleil With Pesto

A visually appealing French pesto appetizer not only tantalizes the taste buds but also elevates the ambiance of any gathering, making it perfect for serving at a party or social event. One of its greatest advantages is that it can be prepared well in advance and then simply baked when your guests arrive. The best part? You can achieve this impressive dish using store-bought puff pastry, making it an effortless yet impressive addition to your menu.

Crescent Roll Pesto Appetizers

Crescent Roll Pesto Appetizers

Elevate your next social gathering with an irresistible treat: crescent rolls infused with the rich flavor of pesto. This crowd-pleasing appetizer is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients.

Start by using pre-made crescent rolls as a base. Then, generously apply a layer of pesto sauce to give these bite-sized morsels a burst of creamy flavor.

For added variety, consider dipping the rolls in different pesto sauces, such as classic basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto, each offering a unique twist on this beloved combination.

Pesto Cheese Spread

Pesto Cheese Spread

Transform your next potluck or finger food gathering into an unforgettable experience by preparing this delectable pesto cheese spread. The combination of basil, almonds, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg creates a harmonious blend that pairs exquisitely with crackers or fresh vegetables. To prepare, simply combine the ingredients in a food processor and pulse until they are coarsely chopped. Next, add drizzles of olive oil to achieve a thick paste consistency.

Then, mix in softened cream cheese and refrigerate before serving. Once you’ve assembled these herby treats on a cracker or veggie stick, get ready for the oohs and ahhs from your guests as they savor each bite.

Pesto Pinwheels

Pesto Pinwheels

When it comes to party-perfect finger foods, these Pesto Pinwheels are an absolute showstopper. Not only do they satisfy any palate with their bold flavors, but they’re also incredibly convenient to devour on-the-go. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a snack that adds to the festive atmosphere of any gathering? The combination of creamy green and red pesto, crispy prosciutto, and gooey mozzarella cheese is a classic for a reason.

These bite-sized treats are surprisingly light and flaky, making them a joy to munch on. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to whip up – and can be prepped in advance no less! Simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve, and get ready to impress your guests with these delectable pinwheels.

Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms With Feta Cheese

Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms With Feta Cheese

Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of this delectable stuffed mushroom recipe! This show-stopping side or appetizer is elevated by the harmonious union of earthy mushrooms, nutty pesto, and briny feta. The combination is nothing short of irresistible. To begin, start with a bounty of large-sized mushrooms, carefully cleaning them to remove the stalks and wiping them down with a moist paper towel. Coat each mushroom with olive oil to prevent drying out.

Next, prepare the filling by blending chopped mushroom stalks, garlic, pesto, sour cream, herbs, and spices in a bowl. Finish it off with breadcrumbs for added texture. Stuff each mushroom cavity with the pesto-cheese mixture, drizzle with additional olive oil, and top with mozzarella cheese before baking to perfection for 20 minutes.

Tomato, Pesto, & Mozzarella Skewers

Combining the best of Italian cuisine, these Tomato, Pesto, & Mozzarella Skewers are a refreshing and flavorful appetizer perfect for summer gatherings. The simplicity of this recipe belies its richness, with just four ingredients coming together in harmony. Ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil pesto, and creamy mozzarella cheese are the stars of the show, skewered to perfection for easy snacking.

To bring this delightful appetizer to life, begin by mixing the pesto and mozzarella balls until the cheese is evenly coated. Then, thread your skewers with alternating tomato and pesto-covered mozzarella pieces, creating a visually appealing and tasty treat that’s sure to please.

Pesto Crostini

Pesto Crostini is often served by spreading the iconic green sauce over crispy baguette slices. To create this delightful appetizer, start by baking thin slices of French baguette in the oven until golden brown and crunchy. Brush both sides with olive oil to achieve the perfect texture. Once the bread has cooled, spread a spoonful of luscious pesto onto each slice using a teaspoon. The canvas is now set for you to get creative with your topping choices.

For a classic Caprese twist, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves on top. Alternatively, try pairing grilled mushrooms with rosemary or ricotta and prosciutto for added flavor and flair.

Basil Pesto & Red Pepper Torte

Basil Pesto & Red Pepper Torte

Start your next social gathering off right with this impressive Basil Pesto & Red Pepper Torte, a refined appetizer that seamlessly combines rich flavors from brown rice, cream cheese, toasted pine nuts, and the sweetness of roasted red peppers.

Twice Baked Potatoes With Creamy Chive Pesto

Twice Baked Potatoes With Creamy Chive Pesto

Indulge in the rich flavors of this twice-baked potato recipe, elevated by the tangy creaminess of pesto sauce. Perfect as an entree or side dish, this delectable treat showcases a harmonious blend of arugula, scallions, chives, and cashews. The result is a culinary experience that transcends traditional baked potatoes, offering a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.

Pesto Shrimp Skewers

Pesto Shrimp Skewers

A culinary masterpiece unfolds when the harmonious trio of pesto, succulent shrimp, and tangy feta cheese converges on the palate. The dish is elevated by a symphony of flavors, with each component playing its part in perfect harmony.

The shrimp, cooked to perfection in olive oil, is then tossed with a generous helping of creamy pesto, adding a rich and herby undertone.

A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds a burst of salty flavor, further enhanced by the judicious addition of pepper and spice to taste.

This delectable combination takes on a whole new dimension when assembled into bite-sized skewers, making it an effortless yet impressive finger food option perfect for any occasion.

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Caprese Pesto Tarts

These delectable Caprese Pesto Tarts are an ideal warm-weather appetizer, showcasing flaky puff pastry as the canvas for a vibrant medley of flavors. The base features cherry tomatoes bursting with juiciness, creamy burrata cheese, sharp cheddar, and a tangy drizzle of basil pesto, all set against a bed of fragrant fresh basil.

With each bite, the harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and herbaceous notes comes together in a culinary symphony that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.

Turkey Pesto Bites

Turkey Pesto Bites

As you await the main event on Thanksgiving Day, tantalize your taste buds with these delightful Turkey Pesto Bites. Their subtle yet satisfying flavors will whet your appetite in anticipation of the feast to come. The clever combination of puff pastry, thin turkey slices, melted provolone cheese, basil pesto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, all expertly secured with a toothpick, makes for a delightful and easy-to-enjoy snack.

Avocado Pesto Stuffed Tomatoes

Avocado Pesto Stuffed Tomatoes

This delightful appetizer recipe is perfect for your next gathering, boasting an effortless preparation process and accessible ingredients that make it ideal for parties. The simplicity of the dish lies in its ability to be easily assembled, with each component contributing to a harmonious balance of flavors. To begin, carefully hollow out the tops of fresh tomatoes, slicing them thinly to create a canvas for your filling.

Next, combine the creaminess of avocado, the tanginess of pesto, and the brightness of lemon juice in a food processor until you achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. Once the filling is prepared, simply pipe it into the pre-made tomato cups, refrigerate until chilled, and serve. The resulting appetizer is a symphony of fresh flavors, sure to impress your guests.

The bottom line

Pesto-based appetizers have a reputation for being irresistible crowd-pleasers. The rich flavor profile offered by pesto is deeply satisfying and always leaves guests wanting more. Whether you’re looking to serve up a variety of veggie options or indulge in some meaty delights, our selection of 42 best nacho toppings provides the perfect inspiration for taking your gathering’s snack game to new heights.

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