Pesto is an Italian sauce made from crushed garlic, pine nuts, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It pairs well with pasta dishes, grilled meats, and bread. Tapenade, on the other hand, is more of a spread that's usually made with capers, black olives, and anchovies. You can also use tapenade on a variety of meats like steak, chicken, and seafood, or serve it as a dip on a snack platter.