From Pizza to Zoodles: 5 Fabulous Ways to Use Pesto

Whether you buy it ready-made or make your own, pesto is the perfect way to add pizzazz to any dish.

1. Pizza with Pesto, Fresh Tomatoes and Mozzarella

This pizza packs a serious pesto punch. The dough is spread with a generous layer of pesto before baking -- and then the pizzas are topped off with more pesto and fresh basil when they come out of the oven. GET THE RECIPE

2. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) with Pesto & Pine Nuts

Zucchini masquerading as noodles with fresh pesto and pine nuts...what could be better? GET THE RECIPE

3. Summer Vegetable Soup with Pesto

This summer soup with a dollop of pesto is healthy and satisfying. Serve it as a meal unto itself or as a side to gooey grilled cheese sandwiches. GET THE RECIPE

4. Grilled Pesto Shrimp

This is one of my favorite ways to use pesto. Whether you serve it as a party appetizer or main course, the shrimp will disappear in a flash. Trust me, no matter how much you think you'll need, make extra! GET THE RECIPE

5. Zucchini-Basil Pistou

Pistou, Provence's version of pesto, is traditionally made with olive oil, garlic and basil but this version adapted from Chef Thomas Keller also incorporates zucchini. It's great on toast, eggs and grilled fish -- but it's so delicious, you'll want to eat it solo with a spoon. GET THE RECIPE