Ray: Arturo Holmes/Getty Images.

Illustration: Getty Images.

As we come to the end of summer, one thing is certain: Its pesto season.

a photo of Rachael Ray with an illustrated pasta background

Photo:Ray: Arturo Holmes/Getty Images. Illustration: Getty Images. EatingWell design.

The first tip is one that all backyard gardeners can appreciate:Pesto isnt only for basil.

Youll also want to see to it you label your pesto container clearly before tucking it into the freezer.

If you enjoy cooking shows or just love making pasta, youve probably heard these words of wisdom before.

But Ray says the pasta water is most critically needed in pesto dishes.

That is what marries the pesto literally to the pasta.