KETO VERDICTMODERATE
Pesto is moderately keto-friendly when unsweetened: ~8.3g net carbs per 100g (about 1.2g per tablespoon) and rich in healthy fats. It’s calorie-dense and carbs add up, so keep to small (1–2 tbsp) portions and track them.
Is Pesto Keto?
Other
Pesto is moderately keto-friendly when unsweetened: ~8.3g net carbs per 100g (about 1.2g per tablespoon) and rich in healthy fats. It’s calorie-dense and carbs add up, so keep to small (1–2 tbsp) portions and track them.
- Net carbs (100g)8.3g
- Protein (100g)7g
- Fat (100g)40g
- Keto verdictEnjoy in moderation
NUTRITION FACTS
Per 100g (raw)
Net Carbs
8.3g
Total Carbs
10.1g
Fiber
1.8g
Protein
7g
Fat
40g
Calories
420
Source: USDA FoodData Central
HOW TO ENJOY IT ON KETO
- Moderate net carbs (~8.3g/100g) with typical 1–2 tbsp servings (~1.2–2.5g) keeping the impact small
- High in heart-healthy fats (olive oil, nuts) to support keto macros
HEALTH BENEFITS
- Basil provides polyphenols with antioxidant properties
- Olive oil delivers monounsaturated fats supportive of heart health
- Nuts and cheese add vitamin E, calcium, and trace minerals
PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS
VEGETABLE TOPPING
Toss steamed or roasted veggies (e.g., zucchini-noodles, broccoli) with pesto for a rich finish.
PROTEIN SAUCE
Spoon over chicken-breast, shrimp, or salmon; thin with olive-oil for a quick drizzle.
CREAMY DIP
Mix pesto with mascarpone or mayo for a thicker, keto-friendly dip.
PESTO MAYO
Stir into mayonnaise for a zippy spread for lettuce wraps or bunless burgers.
WHERE TO BUY
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Mantova Organic Pesto Genovese, 4.6 oz (Pack of 4)
Sure Keto's independent store-bought pesto roundup rated Mantova Organic Pesto Genovese its top "Sure Keto!" pick at just 0.5g net carbs per 30g serving, thanks to a short, organic ingredient list (basil, olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, pine nuts) with no added sugars or fillers common in cheaper jarred pestos.
Alessi Pesto Di Liguria, 7 oz
Sure Keto's independent review of Alessi Pesto rates it Keto-Friendly with 0g net carbs per 2-tbsp serving (edging out Mantova's 0.5g), citing its clean ingredient list of basil, extra virgin olive oil, Pecorino Romano, pine nuts, and garlic with no refined oils or additives beyond a touch of phosphoric acid for shelf stability. It comes as a single 7 oz jar rather than a multi-pack, making it a cheaper way to try a comparably clean pesto.