Calories in pesto sauce
A typical serving of pesto sauce provides about 258 calories. Here are the full macros and nutrition facts.
Per serving · 1/4 cup (60 g)
Calories
258kcal
Protein
3g
Carbs
3.6g
Fat
25.8g
Per 100 g
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 6 g |
| Fat | 43 g |
| Saturated fat | 6.8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Sodium | 1000 mg |
Data based on Open Food Facts and public nutrition databases.
A green Italian sauce made of fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese.
Nutritional benefits
- Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
- Excellent source of antioxidants from basil
- Contains essential minerals
How to prepare it
- 1.Mix with freshly cooked pasta
- 2.Spread on chicken breasts before baking
- 3.Use as a garnish for Caprese salads
Lighter alternatives
Fresh basil and lemon
Similar flavor without oil calorie density
Chimichurri
Lower saturated fat as it contains no cheese
Kale pesto
More fiber and nutrient dense
Healthy tip
It's very nutritious but caloric, use it as a seasoning rather than a liquid base.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it turn brown?
Basil oxidizes upon air contact; covering with a layer of oil helps prevent this.
Is it vegan?
Traditional pesto has cheese, but vegan versions using nutritional yeast are common.
Can it be heated?
Better to add to hot food at the end so the heat doesn't make the basil bitter.