The main difference lies in the key ingredients used to prepare each pesto: Basil Pesto: Basil pesto, also known as Pesto alla Genovese, features fresh basil leaves as its star ingredient. It is combined with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. The result is a vibrant green sauce with a fresh and herbaceous flavor. Red Pesto: Red pesto, or Pesto Rosso, incorporates sun-dried tomatoes as its primary component. It combines sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This variation produces a rich red sauce with a sweet yet tangy taste.