Summer is in full swing, which means it's the perfect time to explore some creative ways of using pesto in your cooking. This versatile green sauce can do so much more than just accompany a pasta dish. Here are 7 delicious and easy ways to incorporate pesto into your meals:

Grilled Vegetables with Pesto Marinade

Grilled vegetables are always a hit during the summer, and adding a pesto marinade takes them to the next level. Simply mix your preferred pesto sauce with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss your favorite vegetables in the pesto marinade, then grill them until they're tender and charred.

Pesto-Stuffed Grilled Chicken Breasts

This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend BBQ. Butterfly your chicken breasts, then fill them with a mixture of pesto, cream cheese, and grated parmesan. Grill the chicken until it's golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Pesto and Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is a lean and flavorful cut of meat that pairs beautifully with pesto. Stuff a pork tenderloin with thin slices of mozzarella cheese and a generous amount of pesto. Roast it until it's tender and golden brown, then slice and serve.

Pesto Cauliflower Rice

Low-carb and delicious, this recipe is perfect for those who love pesto and want a healthier option. Instead of using regular rice, substitute it with cauliflower rice, then mix in your favorite pesto. Add some fresh herbs and roasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture.

Pesto and Goat Cheese Pizza

Pizza night just got an upgrade. Spread your preferred pesto sauce over a prepared pizza crust, then top it with crumbled goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Bake it until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.

Pesto and Salmon Foil Packets

Foil packets are the perfect way to cook a healthy, flavorful meal without a lot of fuss. Place a salmon filet on a sheet of foil, then top it with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and sliced lemons. Wrap it up tightly and bake it in the oven until the salmon is cooked through.

Pesto and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for feeding a big family or for meal prep. Stuff cooked jumbo pasta shells with a mixture of pesto, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Top it with your favorite marinara sauce and bake until bubbly and golden.

In conclusion, pesto sauce is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can easily be used to elevate your cooking. With these 7 creative ideas, you can easily incorporate pesto in a variety of dishes and impress your loved ones.