5 Links to Read Before Making Pesto

Each week, we’ll be sharing a comprehensive list of links to help you master something new in the kitchen. Culinary greatness, here you come.

Today: Make pesto. Put it on everything. Repeat.

Pesto is one of those handy sauces that instantly upgrades a meal. The combination of bright herbs, fresh garlic, and plenty of salt and olive oil transforms pasta, sandwiches, salads, pizza, and soup. It's easy to throw together in a pinch, and -- if you're willing to think outside the basil-and-pine-nut box -- it's highly versatile. Whip up some pesto and enjoy it all week long -- these links will help.

• How to make any pesto in 5 steps. (Food52.)

• Pine nuts are expensive -- try substituting them for any of these nuts instead. (Serious Eats.)

• Next time you buy carrots, save the tops! (They make a mean pesto.) (Bon Appétit.)

• 11 pesto variations to get you out of your comfort zone. (Saveur.)

• Make a big batch of pesto, then use it in these 10 ways. (The Kitchn.)

Pesto pros -- share your secrets in the comments!