Scarpetta Pink Pesto

Scarpetta Pink Pesto, from Esplanda, is sold here in the snacks category. The name points to its intended use: "scarpetta" is the Italian habit of wiping a plate clean with a piece of bread. The ingredients, weight and flavor profile aren't listed in the product details, so check the label for those. Pink pesto in general is a blend of basil-style pesto with tomato, or sometimes roasted red pepper, which gives a sweeter, rounder and less sharply herbal result than classic green pesto. Expect that style here, not a confirmed recipe. Serve it at room temperature or just slightly cool, since cold dulls the oil and cheese notes in pesto. It works best as a dip or spread. Use torn crusty bread, focaccia, grissini or plain crackers, and set out a small bowl so people can scarpetta from it directly. It also suits a bruschetta base under sliced mozzarella or burrata, stirred through hot pasta with a spoonful of the cooking water, or spread inside a grilled sandwich. Because it sits between tomato and basil, it goes well with soft cheeses, cured meats like prosciutto, and roasted vegetables. If you're pairing a drink, a dry rosé, a crisp Italian white such as Vermentino, or a light, chilled red such as Lambrusco will match the tomato acidity without overwhelming the basil. Glassware doesn't apply to the product itself. A shallow dish or small ramekin is the useful serving vessel.