Pesto has become a kitchen essential stirred through pasta, spread on toast, or dolloped over roasted vegetables. But with all that olive oil, cheese, and nuts, you might wonder: is pesto actually healthy?
Let’s take a closer look at what’s in pesto, how it can fit into a balanced diet, and even explore some gut-friendly alternatives (including our favourite: wild garlic pesto).
Traditional pesto (or pesto alla Genovese) is a simple blend of:
The name pesto comes from the Italian pestare, meaning “to pound” originally made using a mortar and pestle.
Today, there are endless variations: vegan pestos, kale pestos, even wild garlic pesto, which swaps basil for the fragrant leaves of wild garlic and is perfect in spring (we wrote a full guide here).
Pesto is rich in heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins:
Together, these ingredients can help support overall wellness when eaten in moderation.
While pesto offers plenty of nutritional goodness, it’s also energy-dense.
Tip: Always check the label, or better yet, make your own. Homemade pesto allows you to control ingredients, reduce salt, and use extra-virgin olive oil for a richer nutrient profile.
Want to enjoy pesto more often without overdoing the calories? Try these ideas:
Yes, when made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and enjoyed in moderation. The olive oil, herbs, and nuts deliver valuable nutrients that can support heart health and even gut health when paired with a balanced diet.
Whether it’s tossed with pasta or spread on whole-grain toast, pesto can be a vibrant way to add plant-powered goodness to your meals.
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