Red Pesto: Our Selection to Elevate Your Dishes

Short on time, but craving a delicious, comforting meal? Red pesto, also known as pesto rosso, is the secret weapon for transforming a simple pasta dish or a piece of toast into a flavour-packed delight. Packed with sun-dried tomatoes, it brings an instant taste of Italy and sunshine to your plate.

But supermarket shelves are overflowing with options, and it's easy to get lost. As the Head of Product Selections at Joybuy, my mission is to cut through the noise for you. This guide gives you all the keys to choosing a quality red pesto sauce that suits your taste, without being swayed by marketing claims.

How to Choose a Good Red Pesto?

To find the red pesto that's perfect for you, several criteria should be considered. Here are the key points to check to make an informed choice.

1. Decode the Ingredients and Origin

The quality of a sun-dried tomato pesto comes down to its ingredients. Pay close attention to:

• Tomato content: A good red pesto should feature tomatoes prominently, whether as a purée, concentrate, or dried. A high percentage is often a sign of intense flavour.
• The oil used: Sunflower oil is common and neutral. Extra virgin olive oil, on the other hand, is a sign of a more premium recipe and adds a characteristic fruity flavour.
• The cheeses: The presence of PDO Italian cheeses like Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano is a guarantee of authenticity and aromatic complexity.
• Allergens: Most red pestos contain cashew nuts and dairy products. Be sure to check the label for any allergies or intolerances.

2. Identify Your Flavour Profile

Just as there are several types of Italian red pesto, flavour profiles vary to satisfy every palate.

• Classic: Mild and fruity, it focuses on the richness of sun-dried tomatoes, with notes of garlic and basil. A reliable choice that the whole family will enjoy.
• Bold or Spicy: Some Calabrian-inspired recipes include chilli for a spicy kick that awakens the taste buds. Ideal for those who love dishes with character.
• Creamy: The addition of ingredients like ricotta gives the pesto a creamier texture and a smoother flavour.

3. Consider Its Use in the Kitchen

Your choice may also depend on how you plan to use it. A slightly thicker texture will be perfect for bruschetta, while a runnier pesto will coat pasta better. Most jarred pestos are very versatile, but keeping the end use in mind will help you refine your selection.

Our Recommended Red Pestos

Here are a few options we recommend, chosen for the quality of their ingredients and their distinct flavour profiles.

Florelli Classic Red Pesto 190g

What sets it apart: This Florelli red pesto is based on an authentic and perfectly balanced recipe. Its key feature: a generous tomato base, combining tomato purée (35%) and sun-dried tomatoes (15%) for a deep, fruity flavour. The combination of two PDO Italian cheeses perfects the blend.

Highlights:

• Intense tomato taste thanks to the double concentration.
• Authentic flavour with the duo of Grana Padano PDO and Pecorino Romano PDO cheeses.
• Versatile texture, ideal on pasta or as a spread.
• Made in Italy.

Who is it for? For fans of traditional pesto rosso looking for a reliable choice for everyday cooking. It's the ideal entry point for getting started with red pesto.

Florelli Spicy Calabrian Pesto 190g

What sets it apart: Inspired by the flavours of Calabria, this pesto stands out with its spicy note. The chilli (2%) is subtly balanced to provide a pleasant heat without overpowering the taste of the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper.

Highlights:

• A bold and original flavour profile.
• Masterful balance between the heat of the chilli and the sweetness of the tomato.
• Highly versatile: excellent on pasta, with grilled meats, or on appetiser toasts.
• Made in Italy.

Who is it for? For those seeking a thrill and who love to add character to their dishes. If classic red pesto seems a bit too tame, this version is for you.

Rummo Pesto Rosso with Ricotta 190g

What sets it apart: The house of Rummo, famous for its pasta, offers a pesto rosso that stands out with the addition of ricotta (6%). This ingredient gives it a creaminess and smoothness that perfectly balances the intensity of the tomatoes and fresh basil.

Highlights:

• Creamy and velvety texture thanks to the ricotta.
• Complex flavour blending fresh basil, pine nuts, and Pecorino Romano PDO.
• Controlled salt content (1.3g per 100g), a plus compared to the competition.
• The assurance of a major Italian brand.

Who is it for? For food lovers looking for an enveloping texture and a milder, more nuanced flavour. It is particularly delicious with gnocchi or short pasta shapes that hold the sauce well.

Want to Create Your Own Sauce?

If you'd rather try your hand at your own red pesto recipe or create other homemade sauces, the quality of the tomato base is essential. A good tomato purée is the ideal starting point to let your creativity shine.

Take a look at our selection of tomato purées to find inspiration in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Pesto

What is the difference between red pesto and green pesto?

The difference lies in the star ingredient! Green pesto (pesto alla genovese) is made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano and/or Pecorino), and olive oil. Red pesto (pesto rosso), however, swaps out much of the basil for sun-dried tomatoes, hence its ruby colour and milder, fruitier flavour.

How do you use red pesto sauce in cooking?

Its greatest strength is its versatility! Here are a few ideas for using it in your everyday cooking:

• With pasta: The classic use. Simply thin it out with a ladleful of the pasta cooking water to coat your pasta perfectly.
• On bruschetta: Spread it on slices of toasted bread, add a basil leaf and a shaving of Parmesan for a perfect appetiser.
• As a pizza base: Dare to be different by using it instead of traditional tomato sauce.
• In sandwiches: It instantly elevates a chicken, mozzarella, or grilled vegetable sandwich.
• As a marinade: Mix it with a drizzle of olive oil to flavour chicken or fish before grilling.

How long does red pesto last after opening?

Once opened, a jar of red pesto should be stored in the refrigerator. It is best to consume it within 3 to 5 days. A pro tip to extend its shelf life: cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil before closing the jar. In any case, always follow the instructions on the packaging.