Not all Barilla pesto is created equal
For consumers with dietary restrictions, particularly those following a vegan lifestyle, understanding product ingredients is crucial. When it comes to Barilla's pesto sauces, a simple look at the label is essential, as the company produces multiple types. The key takeaway is that the traditional green pestos are not vegan, but a specific, clearly-labeled vegan version is available.
The traditional dairy-based pestos
Barilla's classic Pesto alla Genovese is the original version and, like all traditional recipes, is not vegan. This is due to the inclusion of hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano. These cheeses contain dairy, making them unsuitable for vegans. The ingredients list for these sauces clearly indicates milk-based products. This is also true for other non-vegan varieties like the Creamy Genovese Basil Pesto, which lists Italian cheese among its ingredients.
The plant-based, cheese-free alternative
Recognizing the growing demand for plant-based options, Barilla introduced a dedicated vegan pesto. This variety is explicitly labeled as 'Vegan Pesto' or 'Vegan Basil Pesto' and is made without any cheese or other dairy products. Instead, it uses ingredients like cashews to achieve a creamy texture and rich flavor. This option is designed specifically for those with dietary preferences or sensitivities who want to enjoy the flavor of pesto without the dairy.
A comparison of Barilla pesto varieties
To help you decide, here is a quick comparison of the ingredients and features of the different pesto products offered by Barilla.
| Feature | Barilla Traditional Pesto (Genovese) | Barilla Vegan Pesto (Basilico) |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Status | Not Vegan | Vegan |
| Key Flavor | Basil and aged Italian cheese | Basil and cashew nuts |
| Dairy | Contains Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheese | Dairy-free and lactose-free |
| Main Oil | Sunflower and extra virgin olive oil | Vegetable oils (olive, sunflower) |
| Nut | Cashews and possibly other nuts | Cashews |
| Preservatives | Prepared without preservatives | No added preservatives |
A list of ingredients for the vegan pesto
For those who need to double-check, here are the typical ingredients found in Barilla's Vegan Basil Pesto:
- Basil
- Sunflower oil
- Cashew kernels
- Glucose syrup
- Water
- Modified corn starch
- Salt
- Natural flavors
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Sugar
- Lactic acid (acidity regulator)
- May contain traces of other nuts
How to tell the difference at the store
To ensure you are purchasing the correct product, look for these cues when shopping:
- Clear Labeling: The jar will be explicitly labeled as 'Vegan Pesto' or '100% Vegan'.
- Read the Ingredients: Always check the ingredients list. The vegan version will not list cheese, whey, or any other milk-based products.
- Check the Allergen Information: The label will usually highlight that the product is dairy-free and suitable for vegans.
Vegan pesto: is it as good as the original?
Many people assume that a vegan pesto will lack the rich, savory flavor that cheese provides. However, Barilla's Vegan Pesto uses cashews and natural flavors to replicate this creaminess and umami. Numerous consumer reviews praise the vegan version for being just as delicious and satisfying as its dairy counterpart. The creamy texture and intense basil flavor are maintained, providing a fantastic alternative for those avoiding dairy.
Uses for Barilla's vegan pesto
Barilla's vegan pesto is incredibly versatile and can be used in the same ways as traditional pesto. It's an excellent choice for a variety of meals:
- Pasta dishes: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and flavorful meal.
- Sandwich spread: Use it as a vibrant and tasty spread for sandwiches or wraps.
- Pizza base: Replace tomato sauce with vegan pesto for a unique and delicious pizza.
- Dipping sauce: Serve it as a dip with vegetables or breadsticks.
- Marinade: Use it to marinate vegetables, tofu, or plant-based proteins before grilling or baking.
What if you can't find Barilla vegan pesto?
If the vegan variety of Barilla pesto is unavailable, there are other alternatives. Several brands now offer vegan pestos, and it's also simple to make your own at home. A homemade vegan pesto can be created by substituting the cheese with nutritional yeast and using cashews for creaminess. This gives you full control over the ingredients and allows for customization.
Conclusion
In summary, whether Barilla pesto is vegan or not entirely depends on the specific product. While the company's traditional pestos contain dairy-based cheese and are not vegan, Barilla has developed and clearly labeled a distinct vegan pesto. This plant-based option is made without cheese, using cashews for a creamy texture and vibrant flavor. Always double-check the label for the 'vegan' designation to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
Key takeaways about Barilla pesto
- Barilla offers both traditional and vegan pesto varieties.
- Traditional Barilla pestos are not vegan, as they contain Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheeses.
- The specific product labeled 'Vegan Pesto' is dairy-free and made without cheese.
- Cashews are often used in the vegan recipe to provide a creamy texture.
- Always check the label for the 'Vegan' certification to be sure.
- Vegan pesto can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to spreads.
- Homemade vegan pesto is a viable alternative if the store-bought option is unavailable.
A note on traditional pesto ingredients
It is worth noting that some traditional pestos, even without cheese, might contain other non-vegan ingredients. For example, some cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano use animal rennet, an enzyme from a calf's stomach, which makes the pesto non-vegetarian as well. However, this is not an issue for Barilla's specifically labeled vegan product, as it is made with 100% plant-based ingredients.
For more information on making your own plant-based dishes, a reliable source like the Food52 recipe for 'Simple Vegan Pesto' offers helpful guidance: https://food52.com/recipes/22291-simple-vegan-pesto.
