Pesto is having a moment and Barilla brings the flavor

While bright, tomato forward marinara offers a taste of the garden, pesto has tremendous versatility. From a spoonful on pasta to a dollop for bread, it is the food that can go with so many different recipes. Barilla has expanded its pesto offerings, and it is time to open another jar.

In its simple form, pesto is a combination of herbs, pine nuts, garlic, and parmesan cheese. That vibrant green sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine.

Many recipes add, subtract, or swap ingredients to alter the flavor. From subtle to robust, the options are many.

Barilla, a leader in the pasta space, is a food brand who is always looking to add flavors that give cooks more options in the kitchen. With the new pesto offerings, there are plenty of new dishes to whip up.

According to Matt Michaels, Pesto Brand Manager, "This Barilla expansion meets consumers’ growing appetite for genuine Italian flavor with a range that offers creamy, spicy and sweet notes to satisfy diverse preferences. With iconic Mediterranean flavor profiles, we believe these Pesto sauces will not only inspire new culinary creations but also bring people together around delicious meals, becoming a cherished staple in kitchens across the country."

Ready to discover the new Barilla pesto flavors?

Joining the Barilla offerings are three new pesto flavors. They are: Creamy Tomato Pesto, Sweet and Spicy Pepper Pesto, and Vegan Pesto.

Looking at the new food offerings, the Sweet and Spicy Pepper Pesto is a take on the swicy food trend. The combination of red pepper and chili peppers makes for a rounded flavor. The spice is approachable yet it makes the taste exciting. When used on a chicken sandwich with some arugula, it is sublime.

The Creamy Tomato Pesto is an option for people who love a vodka sauce but would like something a little bolder. Made with balsamic vinegar, tomatoes, and Gran Padano, it is tangy and luscious. Served over a simple pasta with an extra sprinkling of parmesan would be perfection.

Lastly, the Vegan Pesto is a smart expansion for Barilla. It is vital for food brands to have vegan options. This no-cheese option is perfect for food inclusive meals. No one would ever realize that it is vegan.

The new Barilla pesto sauces are available now at Kroger. More stores will be added in 2025.