16 Creative Ways to Use Basil Pesto

Sonia Rao
Jun 10, 2014

Every time we come across a jar of pesto, we have the strong urge to eat it by the spoonful. It’s so darn delicious! Mixing together basil, olive oil and toasty nuts creates that perfectly balanced sauce that we all know and love. If you’re like us, you probably have a jar of it in your fridge, just waiting to be used. No worries! We have 16 creative ways to make the most of the ever popular pesto.

1. Basil Pesto: If you’re all about making things at home, you should definitely start off with this simple pesto recipe. It’ll make the perfect batch every time. (via The Food Network)

2. Rustic Chicken and Pesto Tarts: Tarts are basically a jack of all trades. They can be both sweet or savory. This rustic tart is just begging to be served at your next small dinner party. (via A Soulful Appetite)

3. Roasted Corn and Pesto Quinoa Pizza: When we said innovative, we really meant innovative! Who ever thought the words corn, pesto and quinoa would be used to describe a single dish? (via Almonds + Avocados)

4. Pesto Tortellini Salad With Asparagus: Working with tortellini automatically makes you seem like a professional chef. We suggest serving this to wow all of your friends instead of a boring ol’ macaroni salad. (via The Kitchen is My Playground)

5. Crispy Green Beans With Pesto: You know when you were little and your parents could never get you to eat your green beans? If they tasted like this, you probably would’ve gobbled them down in less than 10 seconds. (via Not Enough Cinnamon)

6. Creamy Pesto Salad Dressing: This salad dressing is so easy that you could probably whip it up in under five minutes. (via Savory Sweet Life)

7. Green Beer Cheese Soup With Pesto Croutons: We initially included this recipe for the actual croutons themselves, but who wouldn’t want a bowl of cheesy green soup spiked with beer? We dare you to try this out for dinner tonight. (via The Beeroness)

8. Pesto Popcorn: Popcorn and pesto together? Two of our most favorite foods are colliding, and we’ve never been happier about it. (via Cookie + Kate)

9. Pesto Cornbread With Garlic Scallion Butter: Cornbread is often thought of as a dish for the fall, but summer definitely deserves a little bit of the fun. This herb-filled bread would make an excellent addition to your picnic basket. (via Little Kitchie)

10. Grilled Chicken Sandwich With Pesto Goat Cheese Spread: Just look at that cheesy pesto spread oozing out from underneath the grilled chicken. Drool. (via Food People Want)

11. Cheesy Chicken Pesto Cups: A quick and easy hors d’oeuvre at your service. Your guests will keep on coming back to these. (via I Breathe… I’m Hungry…)

12. Pesto Mashed Potatoes: After you try these, you’ll never go back to your plain ol’ smashed spuds again. (via Better Recipes)

13. Grilled Pesto Chicken + Tomato Kebabs: Kebabs are fun to talk about (seriously, what a great word) and fun to eat. It’s grilling season, everyone! (via Gina’s Skinny Recipes)

14. Pesto Cavatappi: Chances are you’ve had this at an Italian restaurant before. Pesto cavatappi is a popular dish, and now you can learn how to make it at home. (via Culinary Hill)

15. Potato Pesto Pizza: Another pizza recipe, because no one can ever get tired of pizza. This one is basically a pizza version of those awesome mashed potatoes we shared earlier. (via Pillsbury)

16. Pesto Shells + Cheese: And finally, a play on shells and cheese because we’re even reinventing macaroni and cheese today! (via Amuse Your Bouche)

Which basil-filled recipe will be making an appearance in your kitchen soon? Let us know in the comments below!

'Yellowstone' Season 5 Part 2 Premiere Immediately Explains Kevin Costner’s Fate

Yellowstone season 5B is here! Twisters might have been THE summer movie of 2024, but the western vibes aren't going away, even after the Glen Powell movie has left theaters. The second half of Yellowstone season 5 returned to Paramount November 10 and it did not disappoint. 16.4 million viewers tuned into the premiere over a variety of networks — making it the most-watched season premiere in the show's history.

And it's a major season for one very specific reason: Kevin Costner isn't returning as John Dutton. The star decided to exit the series after season 5's eighth episode premiered in January 2023, but as big of a change is this is, Costner is still an executive producer on the series, giving it a familiarity fans will appreciate.

Yellowstone has always been dramatic, but in the Yellowstone season 5 first look, you can just feel the tension from fan favorites like Beth Dutton, Monica Long, and Kayce Dutton. And no wonder: the Duttons' family drama is coming to a head, and it looks like someone might not make it out alive. Read up on everything you need to know about the new season of Yellowstone, and check out why Paramount+'s New Drama Landman Is Perfect For Yellowstone Fans.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about the final season of Yellowstone.

See our interviews with the 'Yellowstone' cast!

@britandco Who run the world ?! #kellyreilly#yellowstone#bethdutton#tv#tvshow#premiere#nyc#newyork♬ original sound - Brit + Co

Wendy Moniz spilled on working with everyone's favorite lady Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton).

@britandco John Emmet Tracy told us all about filming the final season of #Yellowstone 🐴 #johnemmettracy#ellissteele#nyc#redcarpet#premiere#newyork#newyorkcity#fyp♬ original sound - Brit + Co

While John Emmet Tracy gave us the best advice for dealing with crazy families during the holidays!

@britandco You’re welcome 😌 #yellowstone#cowboy#cowboyboots#fashion#premiere#fyp#ianbohen♬ original sound - Brit + Co

And we couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Ian Bohen the best way to take off cowboy boots ;).

What is Yellowstone season 5 about?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Plot

The series introduced us to the Duttons, a powerful family in charge of America's biggest contiguous cattle ranch. Every season has been gritty and powerful, and in the fifth season, we've seen John become Montana's governor and make Beth his chief of staff. But with Jamie trying to take the power away from his dad, the Duttons are fighting each other like we've never seen — especially when Jamie and Beth start considering how to get away with murder.

Luke Grimes recently told Entertainment Weekly how pleased he is with the finale, and Kelly Reilly revealed creator Taylor Sheridan actually told her the ending to the series while they filmed season 1.

“I read the last episode the day before we started filming,” Luke says. “I couldn't be happier. I think it's a perfect ending for the show for every character. It's just a testament to what a good writer Taylor is, and it's a very, very profound, beautiful ending. I can't wait to sit down and watch it one day.”

Is Yellowstone season 5 part 2 out yet?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 Release Date

Yes, Yellowstone season 5 part 2 premiered on Paramount November 10, 2024. You can watch new episodes every Sunday.

The series filmed in Montana during the summer of 2024.

Who's in the cast of Yellowstone season 5?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Cast

The cast of Yellowstone season 5 includes Kelly Reilly, Wes Bentley, Luke Grimes, Kelsey Asbille, Brecken Merrill, Finn Little, Cole Hauser, Gil Birmingham, Wendy Moniz, and Mo Brings Plenty.

Where can I watch season 5 part 1 of Yellowstone?

Paramount

The first half of Yellowstone season 5 is now streaming on Peacock.

Will there be a season 6 of Yellowstone?

Paramount

It's always hard to say goodbye to a beloved show, but despite reports that Yellowstone would end with season 5, it looks like we could be getting a Yellowstone season 6 after all. Deadline confirmed that negotiations are happening for a potential continuation, which would focus on Kelly Reilly's Beth and Cole Hauser's Rip.

Reilly told Entertainment Weekly ahead of the season 5 premiere that "Beth is more like a wild animal this season than ever. When I read the scripts, it made me think [that] she is, for the first time, maybe afraid she will lose it for [her dad]."

"It's dark, brutal and desperate stuff — gaining power, losing it, defending and fighting," she continues. "It's bloody and at times beautiful in how it breaks them into their core selves." The setup for a potential season 6 will totally depend on how season 5 ends — and how it affects Beth, Rip, and the rest of the family.

Is Kevin Costner in Yellowstone season 5 part 2?

Paramount

No Kevin Costner is not in the second half of Yellowstone season 5, and we find out the fate of his character John Dutton immediately. When Beth and Kayce find John dead in the bathroom, Beth immediately suspects foul play and blames it on Jamie.

Due to delays from the writer's strike, and a tug-of-war between Paramount saying Costner couldn't film new episodes and Costner saying creator Taylor Sheridan took too long to write the scripts, the actor chose to leave the series, reportedly in part to promote his Horizon movie franchise.

“I gave this thing five seasons,” the actor told The Hollywood Reporter. “I was really happy to do it. And I don’t need drama. So, let’s just take that drama away, let’s take the guessing [away]. The fans have been way too good to me. And my obligation is to go on and continue to make things that mean something to them.”

Are you excited for Yellowstone season 5 part 2? Read up on The First Cast Member For Yellowstone's 2024 Spinoff, The Madison for more about our new favorite universe.

This post has been updated.

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18 Cute & Cozy Stocking Stuffers So Good, I Want Them All For Myself

As a self-proclaimed homebody, I love to give and get a good stocking filled with my favorite things. From self-care essentials to little treasures that make my home and me happy, these 18 cute and cozy gifts for homebodies will make the holidays a little brighter and your winter a little warmer. Consider your favorite HBs on your list, or grab something you love for yourself! (They make great Secret Santa and White Elephantgifts too!)

Discover the coziest, cutest stocking stuffers for the homebodies in your life here!

Piecework Puzzles

  1. A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle
  2. A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set
  3. For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat
  4. For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set
  5. For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver
  6. For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks
  7. For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot
  8. For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book
  9. For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl
  10. For the one who just loves a lil soak: Stresscare Trio
  11. For the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce
  12. For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle
  13. For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs
  14. For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio
  15. For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case
  16. For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings
  17. For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball
  18. For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Dive Into Our Cute & Cozy Stocking Stuffers Here!

Homecourt

A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle

I am in love with Homecourt’s seasonal fragrance, Balsam Fireplace. It mimics the scent of a crackling fire (think fresh evergreen, warm spice, and salty amber) and I can't get enough of it, from the candle to thehand wash. Each candle burns for 60 hours, giving you plenty of winter nights by the fire.

Anthropologie

A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set

Enjoy self care nights on the regular with these eight spa essentials, from a silky sleep mask and gua sha tool to an exfoliating mitt, hair clip, shower steamer, and scalp massager. Scrunchie included!

Uncommon Goods

For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat

We found the perfect gift for the book lover/homebody/Francophile crossover (pretty much our entire staff). And it's stocking stuffer friendly!

Urban Outfitters

For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set

Manis and nail art at home are prettier with a pop of color. Here are three shimmering shades to drop into your favorite homebody's stocking.

Seavees

For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver

Cozy, cozy! These Après Puff Slip-Ons are not only so cute, but also so incredibly comfortable. Perfect for the WFHer or even someone who enjoys the comfort of the great outdoors (they're that durable), these fleece lined slippers are the best gift for just about every woman on your list.

Uncommon Goods

For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks

So fun and playful, these mesh socks are a great way to flex your cat lady pride.

Anthropologie

For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot

Sugar cubes in a ceramic gingerbread house make the holidays and your morning coffee routine a little brighter.

Wonderbly

For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book

Cocktails at home, but make it personalized! OMG, how cute is this book with a signature drink for them! You get to personalize it based on their drink preferences and customize the cover. It includes a total of 29 recipes to ring in the new year.

Papier

For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl

For the homebody who is always in their heads, this book is great for jotting down to-dos, thoughts, ideas, inspirations and more. You can personalize the cover with their name, a fun title, an alter ego or a special quote too.

Flewd

For the one who just loves a lil soak: Stresscare Trio

These transdermal bath soaks give your homebody buddy up to 5 days of the stress-reducing magnesium, boron, and Omega 3s to reduce anxiety, aches, and stress.

Amazon

For the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce

These award-winning toppers, from a women-owned company, make your desserts a little extra. (A little naked scoop once in a while is just as good too!)

Piecework Puzzles

For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle

Homebodies who love to puzzle will enjoy this mini stocking-size one inspired their zodiac sign!

CocoaVia

For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs

Hot chocolate, but make it healthy! These packets contain cocoa flavanols, which support heart health, and are perfect for adding to your yogurt, favorite drink, or even oatmeal. A heart-healthy stocking stuffer to show you love them....aww.

Colleen Rothschild

For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio

This kit from Colleen Rothschild Beauty offers a range of buildable hues from barely there for staying in to bold for going out. Get a dewy, glossy finish inspired by your favorite travel destination, like Sipping Sangria red.

Burga

For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case

Choose from more than 300+ unique designs and a matching set of cases for all your tech. Whether they're free spirits or v demure, there's a pattern for everyone.

We Dream in Colour

For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings

Give your homebody a reason to dress up with these beautifully detailed brass birds, perfect for Zoom calls!

Ban.do

For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball

Figure out your next life move with this squishy dice for stressful days.

Free People

For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Whether they're working out or Netflix marathoning, these performance-ready socks are fun and happy-inducing. One percent of FP Movement net proceeds benefit its non-profit partner Girls Inc.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more holiday inspiration!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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22 Flavorful Soups From Around The World To Try Right Now

During bouts of cold weather, nothing warms you down to your toes quite like a good soup. From spicy soup recipes to more mild creations, soup is nourishing, warming and often packed with nutritious ingredients. Tomato soup recipes are a classic choice here in the U.S., but maybe you’re in the mood for something a little more… exotic. Lucky for you, soup is a staple in all corners of the globe. Try these 22 soup recipes from around the world next time you feel like jetting off to new (and perhaps warmer) climates.

Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup

This one-pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup is so simple and the perfect bowl to spice things up with salsa verde, poblano peppers, jalapeños, and shredded chicken. Taco seasoning and ground cumin top it off with amazing flavor. Add salty tortilla chips and even lime zest for a magical soup to cozy up to mid-winter. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Easy Homemade Wonton Soup

Though the concept of making homemade wontons may seem intimidating, this delicious soup is actually pretty easy to pull together. Ready in just 40 minutes, it boasts the flavors of authentic pork dumplings, shrimp and fresh veggies. (via Jessica Gavin)

New England Clam Chowder

For something a little closer to home, whip up a bowl of New England clam chowder. You’ll need bacon, pork, potatoes, an array of spices and, of course, clams. The fresher the fish, the better — but if you live somewhere without access to fresh clams, you can sub in canned clams instead. (via A Family Feast)

Manhattan Clam Chowder

Alternatively, you could try Manhattan’s version of clam chowder if you’re craving a yummy seafood stew. The difference between New England and Manhattan clam chowders lies in the soup itself — New England chowder features a white, cream-based soup, while Manhattan style is broth-based. (via Baker by Nature)

Chicken Dumpling Soup

Curb your cravings for a cozy comfort soup with this well-rounded meal that nourishes with tender chicken, fluffy cooked dumplings, and a flavorful creamy broth. (via Real Food Dietitians)

Turkish Tarhana Soup

Mix things up with this popular Turkish soup made with fermented dough and a tomato base, mint, and garlic. (via Give Recipe)

15-Minute Curry Noodle Soup

Curries are popular throughout Asia, particularly in countries like India and Thailand. This quick and easy curry soup is ready in just 15 minutes, and features rice vermicelli noodles. (via The Woks of Life)

Italian Wedding Soup

This Italian-American soup is often served at all manner of Italian restaurants here in the states, but its name is misleading. It’s not traditionally served at weddings in particular… instead, the name refers to the “marriage” of greens and broth. (via Jo Cooks)

Hearty Mulligatawny Soup

This simpler version of the famous mulligatawny soup is made with leftover roast chicken or turkey. Part Indian, part British, this soup is aromatic, mildly spicy, and so comforting. (via Vikalinka)

Vegan Tortellini Soup

This hearty, delicious soup won't take more than 45 minutes and is packed with vegetables, cheesy tortellini, spicy plant-based sausage and lots of flavor! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Spanish Bean Soup

This traditional Spanish soup is made with chickpeas, andouille sausage, onion, olive oil and red potatoes. If you’re more in the mood for spicy chorizo, substitute that instead. Either way, this soup will be nourishing, mildly spicy and *packed* with flavor. (via The Noshery)

French Onion Soup

Is there anything more delicious than a rich French onion soup topped with crunchy croutons and tons of cheese? We think not! This recipe showcases the flavors of French onion soup to delicious effect. We recommend using gruyere, asiago, Swiss or mozzarella cheese (or any combo of those four). (via Gimme Some Oven)

Easy Mexican Pozole

Pozole is a Mexican soup boasting the flavors of hominy and pork. There are red versions and green versions. This particular version is made with red sauce and is super easy to whip up in a jiff. (via The Spice Kit Recipes)

Turkey Avgolemono Soup

This traditional Greek recipe is made with turkey, rice and a little bit of lemon, making for a delicious comfort food that’s both warming and totally invigorating. In fact, you only need five ingredients to make this delicious, authentic soup. That’s right, FIVE. (via The Kitchn)

Cuban Black Bean Soup

Healthy and hearty, this black bean soup is graced with the flavors of black pepper, olive oil and garlic, and comprised of ham and black beans. It’s as nourishing as it is tasty, and can easily be garnished with Greek yogurt in lieu of sour cream in order to make it even healthier. (Of course, that will take away the authenticity of the dish, but we’ll let you decide.) (via The Kitchn)

Creamy Coconut Soup With Cauliflower

This soothing soup is a great way to get veggies into your day in a healthy and hearty way. (via Clean Cuisine)

Ribollita

Now, if you’re looking for a quick and easy dish, this Tuscan soup recipe isn’t for you — it takes roughly three days to make if you want to go the traditional route. Ribollita literally means “reboiled,” so this is a great recipe to make ahead of time and then reboil right before you’re ready to serve it. (via 31 Daily)

Hot and Sour Soup

This traditional Chinese recipe is warming, tasty and packed with nutritious ingredients. We particularly recommend adding kimchi on top, as it’s fermented and therefore contains natural probiotics. Pro tip: To make this vegan, just use veggie broth. (via The Kitchn)

Locro de Papa

Locro de Papa is an Ecuadorian cheesy potato soup that will warm you to your toes and fill you right up. It features annatto, a regional spice that you’ll have to find in an ethnic or Mexican grocery store. But trust us — it will be worth the extra effort. (via Curious Cuisiniere)

Vietnamese Beef Noodle Pho

Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup that is often steeped for *days* in order to get the best broth flavor. However, you can make it much more quickly by taking a few shortcuts. In terms of beef, the best cuts for this noodle soup are sirloin steak, round eye or London broil. (via The Kitchn)

One-Pot Lasagna Soup

Got 30 minutes? This soup version of the Italian classic is the perfect, hearty, comfort food with ground beef, noodles, a tomato-based broth, and a delicious three-cheese topping. (via Averie Cooks)

Easy Homemade Ramen

Last but not least is perhaps America’s most beloved ethnic soup: ramen. Once you’ve made a homemade savory ramen with fresh veggies, noodles and boiled eggs, you’ll never go back to the instant store-bought version. EVER. (via Damn Delicious)

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