6 Creative Ways to Use Green Pesto (It’s Not Just for Pasta)

Green pesto is often seen as a one-note ingredient — great with pasta, and that’s about it. But this classic Mediterranean staple is actually one of the most versatile jars you can keep in your fridge.

Packed with herbs, olive oil, and bold flavour, green pesto is the ultimate shortcut ingredient. Here are 6 easy, everyday ways to use it — no complicated recipes required.

ILIOS Green Pesto can be used in so many different ways!

🥪 1. Sandwich Spread Upgrade

Swap out mayo or butter for a spoonful of green pesto in sandwiches, wraps, paninis, or grilled cheese.

It adds instant flavour and freshness, especially when paired with:

• mozzarella or provolone

• roasted vegetables

• grilled chicken or turkey

Why it works: pesto brings richness and herbs in one simple step. Just one of the many uses for green pesto!

🥕 2. Roasted Veggie Booster

Once your vegetables are roasted, toss them with a spoon of pesto while they’re still warm.

Perfect with:

• potatoes

• carrots

• cauliflower

• zucchini

Why it works: the heat releases the pesto’s aroma and coats the vegetables beautifully — no extra seasoning needed.

🍗 3. Marinade Shortcut

Mix green pesto with a little olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, then use it as a marinade for:

• chicken

• shrimp

• tofu

Let it marinate for 30 minutes (or overnight if you have time), then cook as usual.

Why it works: herbs, fat, and flavour — all in one bowl.

🥗 4. Creamy-Style Salad Dressing (No Dairy)

Whisk green pesto with olive oil and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to create a quick, creamy-style dressing.

Great for:

• leafy green salads

• grain bowls

• pasta salads

Why it works: pesto adds body and flavour without cream or cheese-heavy dressings.

🍳 5. Breakfast Upgrade

Add a small drizzle of pesto to:

• scrambled eggs

• omelettes

• avocado toast

It might sound unexpected, but it instantly elevates simple breakfasts.

Why it works: herbs and olive oil pair surprisingly well with eggs and warm bread.

🍕 6. Pizza & Flatbread Base

Use green pesto instead of tomato sauce on pizza or flatbread. Top with mozzarella, vegetables, or prosciutto, then bake as usual.

Why it works: pesto creates a fresh, Mediterranean-style flavour that feels lighter and more aromatic.

ILIOS CHICKPEA BURGERS (by riri's recipes)

There’s nothing like a fresh, homemade burger in the summertime. Light yet filling, these ILIOS Chickpea Burgers — created by Lisa from Riri’s Recipes — are packed with flavour and a touch of Mediterranean sunshine. Perfect for backyard meals, picnics, or anytime you’re craving something hearty but wholesome.

ILIOS Chickpea Burger by Riri's Recipes - The Perfect Summertime Meal!

Ingredients:

• 1 jar of ILIOS chickpeas (rinsed & drained)

• 1 clove garlic

• 1 tbsp ILIOS extra virgin olive oil

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• 1/3 cup oats

• 1/4 cup water

• 2 tbsp tahini

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• Hamburger buns

• Fresh toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, cheese, etc.)

• Optional: ILIOS Artichoke Bruschetta (spread on your bun for extra flavour!)

Recipe:

1. Add chickpeas, garlic, olive oil, spices, oats, water, tahini, and breadcrumbs to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture comes together but still has some texture.

2. Scoop out portions with a large spoon, roll into balls, and flatten slightly into patties.

3. Heat a frying pan on medium with a drizzle of ILIOS olive oil. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and firm (10–15 minutes total).

4. Assemble your burger with your favourite toppings. Don’t forget to spread ILIOS Artichoke Bruschetta on your bun for that Mediterranean twist.

   
   

Optional: Try them on the grill for even more summer flavour, or serve in a wrap with tzatziki for a lighter meal.

ILIOS Shepherd's pie RECIPE

There are few meals as comforting and cozy as shepherd's pie. A family-favourite, we load ours up with extra veggies to make sure this go-to meal is as nutritious as it is filling. Check out our ILIOS Shepherd's Pie recipe:

ILIOS Shepherd"s Pie is the perfect cozy meal for those cold winter nights.

Ingredients:

6-8 large potatoes (peeled and quartered)

1 onion (chopped)

1 can of ILIOS sweet corn (drained)

1-2 cups of ILIOS frozen peas & carrots

1 pack of ground beef (450-500g)

1/2 cup of beef broth

1/2 cup of milk

1/2 cup butter

Salt & pepper

Recipe:

1) Preheat oven to 400°F.

2) Place the potatoes in a large-sized pot. Cover with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook until tender (about 20-30 minutes).

3) While potatoes are cooking, sauté the onions and other veggies with butter or oil until soft. Add the beef and broth once onions are translucent. Cook uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, adding broth as required to avoid drying out the meat. Season with salt & pepper.

4) Mash the cooked potatoes, adding milk and butter until desired consistency is achieved. Season with salt & pepper.

5) Spread the meat and vegetable mix evenly into a large baking dish. Top evenly with mashed potatoes.

6) Place in preheated oven and cook until browned and bubbling, about 30 minutes. If necessary, broil for the last few minutes to help the mashed potatoes brown. Enjoy!

Optional: For extra flavour, add a pack of gravy mix & water to your meat & veggie mix while cooking (use instead of beef broth). You can also top the shepherd's pie with shredded cheese before popping it in the oven.