Pesto substitutes
Pesto substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Basil oil
Same amount as the pesto
Infused oil with basil flavor, good for pasta and pizza.
The best substitutes for pesto are basil oil, chimichurri, or arugula pesto.
- Verdict —
- You'll taste it
- Best for —
- pasta
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of pesto | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Basil oilpasta | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 2 | Chimichurripasta | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Arugula pestopasta | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Spinach pestopasta | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Sun-dried tomato pestopasta | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Basil oil
different taste and texture
Infused oil with basil flavor, good for pasta and pizza.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, salads, sandwiches
Missing nuts and cheese but provides basil flavor and oil base.
Chimichurri
different taste, similar texture
South American herb sauce with similar texture and herbaceous flavor.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, meat, vegetables
Different herbs but similar texture and vibrant green color.
Arugula pesto
different taste, similar texture
Pesto made with arugula instead of basil, similar texture and preparation.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, dips
More peppery than basil pesto but similar texture and uses.
Spinach pesto
different taste, similar texture
Pesto made with spinach instead of basil, milder flavor.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, dips
Milder flavor than basil pesto but similar texture and preparation.
Sun-dried tomato pesto
different taste, similar texture
Pesto made with sun-dried tomatoes instead of basil.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, dips
Different flavor profile but similar texture and preparation method.
Questions
4 questionsCan I make pesto without pine nuts?
Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or cashews. You can also make pesto without nuts entirely, though it will have a different texture and flavor.
What's the difference between pesto and chimichurri?
Pesto is Italian and made with basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, while chimichurri is South American and made with parsley, cilantro, and vinegar. Both are herb-based sauces but have different flavor profiles.
Can I freeze pesto?
Yes, pesto freezes well. Freeze it in ice cube trays or small containers. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
How long does pesto last in the refrigerator?
Fresh pesto lasts 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly with a layer of olive oil on top. The oil helps prevent oxidation and keeps the pesto fresh longer.
Tips for substituting pesto
7 tips- Pesto is best made fresh and used immediately for maximum flavor
- Store pesto in the refrigerator with a layer of olive oil on top
- Pesto can be frozen in ice cube trays for longer storage
- Use high-quality olive oil and fresh basil for the best pesto
- Pesto pairs well with pasta, pizza, chicken, and fish
- Add pesto at the end of cooking to preserve its fresh flavor
- Pesto can be thinned with pasta water or olive oil as needed