Pesto Parmesan Sourdough is a delightful artisan loaf that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the rich essence of pesto and freshly grated Parmesan. This bread offers a crusty exterior that gives way to a soft and aromatic interior, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or a tasty addition to your charcuterie board. Let’s explore how to create this scrumptious loaf that elevates any meal with its bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Parmesan Sourdough

This Pesto Parmesan Sourdough is not just another bread recipe; it’s a culinary experience! Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich, savory taste that pairs well with various dishes.
Perfect for sandwiches with sourdough with pesto and cheese.
Versatile enough for toast or as a side with soup.
Simple ingredients that create an impressive artisan loaf.
Beautiful marbling of pesto and cheese throughout the crumb.
Ideal for sharing during gatherings or as a gift for food lovers.
Stunning presentation makes it a showstopper on any table.
Suitable for vegetarians, adding a savory twist to any meal.

Ingredients for Pesto Parmesan Sourdough

Gather these items:

500g bread flour (about 4 cups)
100g active sourdough starter (about 1/2 cup)
350g filtered water (about 1 1/2 cups)
10g fine sea salt (about 2 teaspoons)
80g pesto (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
50g freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup, packed)
Extra Parmesan
A drizzle of olive oil

How to Make Pesto Parmesan Sourdough Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine sourdough starter and water in a bowl, then add flour and mix until no dry bits remain. Rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Sprinkle salt over the dough and mix until incorporated.
Step 3: Rest for 4–5 hours, performing 3–4 stretch-and-folds every 30–45 minutes. On the final fold, laminate dough and gently spread pesto and Parmesan before folding in.
Step 4: Form dough into a boule or batard.
Step 5: Place in a floured banneton, rest for 1 hour at room temperature, then refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours).
Step 6: Preheat Dutch oven to 475°F (245°C). Flip dough onto parchment, score, and bake for 20 minutes covered, then 20–25 minutes uncovered.
Step 7: Let loaf cool fully before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pesto Parmesan Sourdough

Keep these in mind:

This loaf is great for sandwiches, toast, charcuterie boards, or serving with soup.
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Consider adding garlic pesto sourdough for an extra flavor kick.
Be patient during the resting and fermentation stages; it enhances texture and flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Pesto Parmesan Sourdough

This Pesto Parmesan Sourdough is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:

Enjoy it sliced with a topping of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes for a Bruschetta twist.
Pair it with your favorite soups for a comforting meal.
Use it as the base for a savory sandwich with deli meats and fresh greens.

Pesto Parmesan Sourdough: 5 Bold Flavors in One Loaf - Pesto Parmesan Sourdough - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Pesto Parmesan Sourdough

To keep your Pesto Parmesan Sourdough fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat slices in the oven or toaster, allowing them to regain their crusty texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Parmesan Sourdough

What’s the secret to perfect Pesto Parmesan Sourdough?

The key is in the fermentation process. Allowing the dough to rest ensures a well-developed flavor and a light, airy texture. Combine this with quality ingredients like fresh basil for the pesto, and you’ll have a bakery-worthy loaf.

Can I make Pesto Parmesan Sourdough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator. This method enhances the flavor and makes it easy to bake fresh bread in the morning.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pesto Parmesan Sourdough?

Avoid overworking the dough during mixing and folding, as this can lead to a dense loaf. Also, ensure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor, and don’t skip the resting times.

Variations of Pesto Parmesan Sourdough You Can Try

For exciting twists on this recipe, consider these variations:

Swap the pesto for sourdough with basil pesto for a fresh twist.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for unique flavor profiles.