5 Creative Ways to Punch Up Classic Pesto
Basil is just the beginning, with the latest versions swapping in everything from parsley to spinach. Here, chef Alexandra Guarnaschelli shares her favorites, plus delicious ways to use them.
Recipes created by Alexandra Guarnaschelli

Photo: Nigel Cox
Basil Pesto
Alex's serving suggestion: "I love this classic pesto spread on toast with mozzarella or ricotta cheese."
Get the Basil Pesto Recipe
Get the Basil Pesto Recipe

Photo: Thinkstock
Scallion and Pumpkin Seed Pesto
Alex's serving suggestion: "Try serving this alongside roasted chicken, as a dipping sauce."
Get the Scallion and Pumpkin Seed Pesto Recipe
Get the Scallion and Pumpkin Seed Pesto Recipe

Photo: Thinkstock
Parsley and Walnut Pesto
Alex's serving suggestion: "With its rich, nutty flavor, this pesto is fantastic on roast pork or drizzled on grilled mushrooms."
Get the Parsley and Walnut Pesto Recipe
Get the Parsley and Walnut Pesto Recipe

Photo: Nigel Cox
Spicy Arugula Pesto
Alex's serving suggestion: "Mix a spoonful into salad dressing or into the liquid from steamed mussels or clams—anywhere you want to have the freshness of herbs combined with a little heat."
Get the Spicy Arugula Pesto Recipe
Get the Spicy Arugula Pesto Recipe

Photo: Thinkstock
Grilled Zucchini Pesto
Alex's serving suggestion: "This pesto has a lot of body from the zucchini—it's great as a ravioli filling or slathered on fish wrapped in a tortilla."
Get the Grilled Zucchini Pesto Recipe
Next: 7 new pasta classics
Get the Grilled Zucchini Pesto Recipe
Next: 7 new pasta classics
From the August 2012 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine