Basil pesto
What is Basil pesto?
Basil pesto is a sauce originating from Genoa, Italy. It is traditionally made by crushing fresh basil leaves with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Sardo cheese, and olive oil using a mortar and pestle.
Is Basil pesto vegan?
No. Basil pesto is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.
Is Basil pesto gluten-free?
It is not derived from celery, cereals containing gluten, crustaceans, eggs, fish, lupin, molluscs, mustard, peanuts, sesame, soya, or sulphur dioxide/sulphites.
Is Basil pesto a major allergen?
Basil pesto often contains milk and may contain tree nuts (pine nuts), which are among the 14 allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on labels.
What is Basil pesto used for?
Manufacturers use basil pesto as a flavouring ingredient.
Is Basil pesto safe?
Basil pesto is not a food additive and does not have an E-number.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use basil pesto as a flavouring ingredient. Its fresh, herbaceous, and savoury taste profile makes it a popular addition to pasta dishes, pizzas, sandwiches, and as a dip or spread.
Health notes
Basil pesto is not a food additive and does not have an E-number. Its health implications are primarily related to its nutritional content from the ingredients, such as healthy fats from olive oil and calcium from cheese. The UK's Eatwell Guide advises that fats, including those in olive oil, should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Allergen info
Basil pesto often contains milk and may contain tree nuts (pine nuts), which are among the 14 allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on labels. It is not derived from celery, cereals containing gluten, crustaceans, eggs, fish, lupin, molluscs, mustard, peanuts, sesame, soya, or sulphur dioxide/sulphites.
Foods that contain Basil pesto
Compare products →
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.