Name: Pesto Cheese and Mozzarella Snack Hacks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); 2 tablespoons Buitoni Basil Pesto; 4 ounces goat cheese; 2 tablespoons Buitoni Spicy Red Pepper Pesto; 8 ounces mozzarella balls (drained); 2 tablespoons Buitoni Basil Pesto; 7 ounces Buitoni Spinach & Artichoke Pesto; 1 tablespoon shredded parmesan cheese

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Introduction

Pesto Snack Hacks are quick and flavorful bites perfect for any occasion. Using a variety of pestos and cheeses, these easy recipes bring vibrant taste and simple preparation to your snack time.

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
2 tablespoons Buitoni Basil Pesto
4 ounces goat cheese
2 tablespoons Buitoni Spicy Red Pepper Pesto
8 ounces mozzarella balls
2 tablespoons Buitoni Basil Pesto
7 ounces Buitoni Spinach & Artichoke Pesto
1 tablespoon shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of basil pesto in a bowl. Stir vigorously until completely blended and smooth.
Step 2: Remove the goat cheese from its package and place it on parchment paper to make handling easier. Spoon 2 tablespoons of spicy red pepper pesto evenly over the top of the goat cheese.
Step 3: Drain the mozzarella balls well if they are stored in water or oil. Place them in a bowl, spoon 2 tablespoons of basil pesto over them, and toss gently until the mozzarella is evenly coated.
Step 4: Transfer the spinach and artichoke pesto to a serving dish. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of shredded parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Tips & Variations

For a fresher taste, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the cream cheese pesto mixture.
Try serving the goat cheese and red pepper pesto mixture with crackers or crusty bread for a delightful appetizer.
Use fresh mozzarella and basil leaves alongside the pesto-marinated mozzarella balls to enhance texture and look.
Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes to the spinach artichoke dip if you prefer a little extra heat.

Storage

Store each prepared pesto snack separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften and release their flavors. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cheeses may change.

How to Serve

The image shows a wooden board with three food items and two green containers of Buitoni pesto with different labels on top left and bottom right. On the top right, there is a white bowl filled with white mozzarella balls covered with green pesto sauce and garnished with three fresh green basil leaves. On the bottom left, there is a white bowl with a creamy white dip that has a small green dollop of pesto in the center. In the middle, there is a piece of white parchment paper holding a white log of soft cheese topped with a chunky red pepper spread. Near the top center, three fresh green basil leaves are placed directly on the wooden board. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto works wonderfully and can be tailored to your taste. Just ensure it’s well blended for easy mixing with the cheeses.

How long do these pesto snacks last once prepared?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, these snacks remain fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Consume within this timeframe for the best taste and texture.