If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you might be wondering: Does Olive Garden have basil pesto? Olive Garden is famous for its creamy Alfredo sauce, hearty marinara, and rich Italian dishes, but what about pesto? This beloved sauce, made from basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, has been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries.
However, many customers have noticed that pesto-based dishes have disappeared from the menu over the years. So, let’s dive into whether Olive Garden still serves basil pesto, why certain dishes may no longer be available, and what alternatives you can try.
What Is Basil Pesto? A Quick Overview
Before we dive into whether Olive Garden has basil pesto, let’s first understand what pesto is. This delicious, green sauce has been a part of Italian cooking for centuries and is loved for its fresh, herby flavor. But what exactly is it, and why do people love it so much?
The Origin of Basil Pesto
Basil pesto comes from Genoa, Italy, and the word “pesto” means “to crush” or “to pound” in Italian. This name comes from the traditional way pesto was made—by crushing the ingredients with a mortar and pestle.
Although today’s pesto is usually made in a food processor or blender, the classic method of pounding the ingredients by hand is still used in some traditional Italian kitchens.
If you’re curious about the flavors and want to try this dish at home, check out this Chicken Margherita Olive Garden recipe for a delicious homemade version.
Key Ingredients in Basil Pesto
Basil pesto has a rich, creamy texture and a bold, herby taste. It gets its unique flavor from these key ingredients:
- Fresh basil leaves – The star of the sauce, giving it a fresh and slightly sweet taste.
- Garlic – Adds a deep, savory kick to balance the basil’s sweetness.
- Parmesan cheese – Brings a salty, nutty flavor that makes pesto extra tasty.
- Pine nuts – These small, buttery nuts make the sauce rich and smooth.
- Olive oil – Helps blend everything together into a silky, smooth sauce.
- Salt and black pepper – Enhance all the other flavors.
How Is Basil Pesto Used in Cooking?
One reason basil pesto is so popular is its versatility. You can use it in many ways, such as:
- Pasta sauce – Toss it with hot pasta for an easy and flavorful meal.
- Pizza topping – Spread it on pizza instead of tomato sauce.
- Sandwich spread – Use it on bread for extra flavor in sandwiches.
- Marinade for chicken or seafood – Adds a rich, herby flavor to proteins.
- Dip for bread – Mix it with olive oil and enjoy it with warm bread.
Since pesto has such a strong and delicious taste, a little goes a long way!
Variations of Pesto Sauce
The most common type of pesto is basil pesto, but there are other variations too. Here are a few:
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto – Uses dried tomatoes instead of basil, giving it a deep red color and a tangy taste.
- Arugula Pesto – A peppery version made with arugula instead of basil.
- Walnut Pesto – Uses walnuts instead of pine nuts for a more earthy taste.
- Vegan Pesto – Made without cheese, often using nutritional yeast as a substitute.
Does Olive Garden Have Basil Pesto on Its Menu?
The answer is yes and no. Olive Garden does have some dishes that contain basil pesto, but not as a primary pasta sauce. For instance, the Grilled Chicken Margherita features juicy grilled chicken, melted mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of basil pesto.
If you’re looking for a classic pesto pasta dish, however, you might be disappointed. Pesto linguine was once available, but many customers have reported that pesto-based pasta dishes have been removed. On a Reddit discussion, users expressed their disappointment, mentioning that Olive Garden’s pesto options have significantly decreased over time.
Why Did Olive Garden Reduce Basil Pesto Dishes?
Over the years, Olive Garden has shifted its menu offerings based on customer preferences and ingredient availability. Several factors may have contributed to the reduction of pesto-based dishes:
- Changing consumer demand – Pesto may not have been as popular as Alfredo or marinara sauce.
- Ingredient sourcing challenges – Fresh basil and pine nuts can be expensive and seasonal.
- Menu streamlining – Olive Garden often updates its menu to focus on its best-selling dishes.
- Regional variations – Some locations may still offer basil pesto, while others do not.
Although these factors might explain the menu changes, many loyal customers still crave Olive Garden’s pesto dishes.
How to Enjoy Basil Pesto at Olive Garden
If you’re craving basil pesto and wondering if Olive Garden serves it, you’re not alone. While pesto pasta is no longer a standard menu item, there are still ways to enjoy basil pesto at Olive Garden.
Even though pesto pasta isn’t always available, some dishes still include basil pesto as a topping or ingredient. Here’s how you can still satisfy your pesto cravings when dining at Olive Garden.
1. Order the Grilled Chicken Margherita
One of the best ways to get a taste of basil pesto at Olive Garden is by ordering the Grilled Chicken Margherita. This dish includes:
- Grilled chicken breast – Tender and juicy, served fresh off the grill.
- Melted mozzarella cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture.
- Cherry tomatoes – Brings a fresh, slightly tangy flavor.
- Lemon garlic sauce – Enhances the flavors with a zesty kick.
- Drizzle of basil pesto – The perfect finishing touch for a burst of herby flavor.
This dish is one of the few menu items at Olive Garden that still features basil pesto. However, it’s always a good idea to check the Olive Garden menu to see if it’s available at your location.
2. Ask for Extra Basil Pesto on the Side
If you love basil pesto, why not ask for extra on the side? Some Olive Garden locations may be able to provide additional pesto as a topping.
Try these ideas:
- Add extra basil pesto to your Chicken Margherita – More pesto means more flavor!
- Request basil pesto for dipping – It pairs well with Olive Garden’s famous breadsticks.
- Ask if they can mix pesto into your pasta – Some locations may be able to add a little pesto to your favorite pasta dish.
Not all locations will offer this, but it’s worth asking your server.
3. Look for Seasonal or Limited-Time Dishes
Olive Garden occasionally introduces new menu items that include basil pesto. In the past, they have offered:
- Pesto Shrimp Pasta – A creamy, seafood-based dish with basil pesto sauce.
- Pesto Alfredo – A mix of Alfredo sauce and basil pesto for a creamy, herby flavor.
- Pesto Chicken – Grilled chicken topped with pesto and fresh tomatoes.
These dishes aren’t always available, but checking for seasonal specials might lead to a lucky find!
4. Try a Custom Order (If Possible)
While Olive Garden’s menu is mostly set, some locations allow small modifications. Here are a few ideas for customizing your meal:
- Pasta with basil pesto – Ask if they can add pesto to your pasta dish.
- Mix pesto with Alfredo sauce – A creamy, flavorful combination.
- Use pesto as a topping for grilled salmon or shrimp – If the restaurant has pesto on hand, they might be able to drizzle some over your protein.
Again, this depends on the location, but it never hurts to ask!
5. Pair Your Meal with an Olive Garden-Inspired Pesto Dish at Home
If you love Olive Garden’s flavors but want more basil pesto, why not make your own version at home? You can recreate Olive Garden’s famous Pesto Linguine with this easy copycat recipe.
Homemade pesto pasta pairs perfectly with:
- A fresh garden salad (just like Olive Garden’s)
- Warm breadsticks with garlic butter
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
By making it at home, you can enjoy unlimited pesto pasta anytime.
How to Make Basil Pesto at Home
Since Olive Garden doesn’t always offer pesto pasta, why not make your own version at home? The good news is that basil pesto is easy to prepare and requires just a few simple ingredients.
Homemade Basil Pesto Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
- Blend until finely chopped.
- Slowly add olive oil while blending.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Enjoy with pasta, grilled chicken, or as a spread!
For a more detailed guide, check out this authentic homemade basil pesto recipe.
Best Alternatives to Olive Garden’s Basil Pesto
If you’re disappointed that Olive Garden doesn’t offer a full basil pesto pasta, don’t worry! There are many other ways to enjoy delicious pesto-based dishes. Whether you want to dine at another restaurant, buy pre-made pesto, or cook at home, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Here are the best alternatives to Olive Garden’s basil pesto dishes.
1. Visit Other Italian Restaurants That Serve Pesto Pasta
While Olive Garden has limited pesto options, some other Italian restaurant chains regularly serve pasta with basil pesto. If you’re craving a restaurant-quality pesto dish, consider visiting:
Italian Restaurants That Serve Pesto Pasta
- Carrabba’s Italian Grill – They often have pasta with basil pesto and grilled chicken.
- Maggiano’s Little Italy – A great spot for classic Italian pasta dishes, including pesto variations.
- Macaroni Grill – Sometimes features pesto-based pasta specials.
- Local Italian Restaurants – Many independent Italian restaurants offer fresh pesto pasta.
Checking local Italian restaurants is a great way to find authentic pesto dishes that may be missing from Olive Garden’s menu.
2. Buy Store-Bought Basil Pesto
If you don’t have time to make pesto from scratch, you can buy pre-made basil pesto from the store. Many grocery brands sell high-quality pesto sauces that taste just as good as restaurant versions.
Best Store-Bought Basil Pesto Brands
- Barilla Pesto Sauce – A great option that’s smooth and rich.
- Classico Traditional Basil Pesto – A budget-friendly option with a strong basil flavor.
- Buitoni Pesto with Basil – Found in the refrigerated section, this one is fresher and more flavorful.
- Trader Joe’s Pesto Alla Genovese – A customer favorite with a nutty, cheesy flavor.
- Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto (Costco) – A large, high-quality jar at a great price.
These store-bought options are perfect for quick meals. Just mix the pesto with cooked pasta, grilled chicken, or fresh vegetables for an easy meal at home.
3. Make Basil Pesto at Home
If you want the freshest and most flavorful pesto, making your own is the best choice. Homemade pesto is super easy to make, and you can customize it to fit your taste.
Quick Basil Pesto Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a cheaper option)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a food processor, blend the basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
- Slowly add the olive oil while blending until smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Serve with pasta, chicken, or bread.
For an even better homemade version, check out this authentic basil pesto recipe.
4. Try a Basil Pesto Meal Kit or Restaurant Copycat Recipe
If you don’t want to start from scratch but still want a home-cooked meal, try:
- Pesto pasta meal kits – Available at grocery stores, these ready-to-cook kits include pasta and pesto sauce.
- Restaurant copycat recipes – You can recreate Olive Garden’s pesto dishes at home! Try this Olive Garden Pesto Linguine recipe.
These options make it easy to enjoy basil pesto at home without much effort.
5. Use Basil Pesto in New Ways
If you love basil pesto, you don’t have to limit yourself to just pasta! Here are some creative ways to enjoy pesto at home or at other restaurants:
- Pesto Pizza – Spread pesto on pizza dough instead of tomato sauce.
- Pesto Panini – Add pesto to grilled sandwiches for extra flavor.
- Pesto Shrimp or Chicken – Toss seafood or chicken in pesto for a fresh, herby taste.
- Pesto Breakfast Wrap – Mix pesto into scrambled eggs for a delicious twist.
- Pesto Dip – Serve pesto with breadsticks, crackers, or vegetables as a dip.
These fun ideas make it easy to enjoy basil pesto even if Olive Garden doesn’t serve it often.
Customer Reactions: The Love for Pesto at Olive Garden
Many customers have fond memories of Olive Garden’s pesto dishes. On TripAdvisor, one reviewer mentioned that the pesto pasta at Olive Garden was “so delicious” and one of their all-time favorites.
Meanwhile, on social media, Olive Garden once posted: “Pesto is Besto.” This shows that the restaurant has acknowledged the love for basil pesto, even if it’s not always available.
FAQs: Does Olive Garden Have Basil Pesto?
Does Olive Garden still have pesto pasta?
No, pesto pasta is no longer a permanent menu item. However, some locations may offer it as a special.
Can I request extra basil pesto at Olive Garden?
Yes, you can ask for extra pesto when ordering certain dishes, like the Grilled Chicken Margherita.
Why did Olive Garden remove pesto pasta?
The removal may be due to ingredient costs, low demand, or menu simplification.
Which Olive Garden dishes still contain basil pesto?
The Grilled Chicken Margherita is the main dish that includes basil pesto.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pesto options at Olive Garden?
Currently, Olive Garden does not offer a vegan pesto option, but you can make one at home using nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Final Thoughts: Will Olive Garden Bring Back Basil Pesto?
While Olive Garden doesn’t offer a dedicated pesto pasta, you can still enjoy basil pesto in select dishes like the Grilled Chicken Margherita. However, if you’re a fan of pesto-based dishes, making your own at home is the best option.
Hopefully, with enough customer demand, Olive Garden might bring back more basil pesto dishes in the future. Until then, you can satisfy your cravings with homemade pesto pasta or visit other Italian restaurants that serve this flavorful sauce!