Prepare an authentic Genovese Pesto by following the original recipe with a mortar and pestle. A touch of Liguria in your kitchen! Pesto alla genovese: original pesto recipe.
Welcome, dear reader, to our culinary blog! Today we’re here to share with you a delightful traditional Italian recipe – Genovese Pesto. This beloved Ligurian dish is adored worldwide for its fresh aroma and unique flavor. Genovese Pesto instantly transports us to the enchanting region of Liguria, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. This delicious green condiment brings to mind fragrant pasta that exudes freshness and remarkably special green lasagna. Don’t worry, the recipe is simple and quick, requiring only the freshest ingredients.
If you’re looking for the original recipe, you’re in the right place. Making Genovese Pesto with a mortar and pestle is the traditional method that will guarantee an authentic and flavorful result. So, let’s get started and discover together how to create this irresistible dish.
Genovese Style Pesto, Traditional Recipe from Liguria
To better understand the origins of pesto alla genovese in Liguria, let’s delve into the unique characteristics of this region. Liguria happens to be the slimmest region in Italy. Just to give you an idea, at the height of Pegli, a small village only 16 km away from Genoa, Liguria measures a mere 7 km in width.
This entire region is bathed by the sea and simultaneously protected from the harsh winter seasons of northern Italy by the mountain ranges that traverse the territory. This gives the entire region a mild climate, always sunny with clear skies. It is precisely for this reason that Liguria, particularly the area of Imperia, is also known as the Riviera of Flowers, as beautiful floral plants are cultivated here and then marketed in a large part of northern Italy.
The basil grown in Liguria benefits from the region’s splendid climate, proximity to the sea, and the mountain air from the Appennino range. These factors give Ligurian basil a truly unique character, with a delightful fragrance and intense flavor. As a result, the Pesto alla Genovese made in every household, delicatessen, or restaurant in the region offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Here is the recipe for Pesto alla Genovese!
Ligura, an amazing italian region
The Ligurian region offers a wide range of attractions. From charming coastal towns like Portofino, known for its picturesque location and natural harbor, which attracts many tourists to its delightful square. Camogli, another beautiful town in the province of Genoa, with its narrow streets and pastel-colored houses. Portovenere and Lerici, cities that evoke the medieval era, where a 12th-century castle stands proudly on a hill, commanding a breathtaking view of the Gulf of La Spezia.
As mentioned earlier, there is so much to explore in Liguria, Italy, offering a perfect blend of seaside and mountain experiences. If you have a love for nature, I highly recommend visiting the breathtaking Cinque Terre National Park or taking a stroll along the enchanting trails of the Ligurian hinterland, surrounded by the beauty of forests and olive groves. The Cinque Terre, with its picturesque colorful villages overlooking the crystal-clear sea, is an absolute must-visit destination. You can enjoy stunning walks along the paths that connect these villages, treating yourself to awe-inspiring views.
Here are the names of the incredibly famous five lands: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore. In the video below, you can catch a glimpse of each of the 5 Lands.
The 5 Terre stretch for about 10 km along a rugged coastline and can be explored on well-maintained and clearly marked trails. Alternatively, you can visit them by train. Yes, with local trains and without spending too much, you can visit all five towns without worrying about where to park your car. The five lands are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. They are some of the typical places on the Ligurian Riviera.
In the same area, you shouldn’t miss Portovenere with its castle and the Gothic Church of San Pietro. And of course, you can’t miss the city of Genoa with its rich historical and cultural heritage.
On the opposite side, known as the Western Riviera, you will find Varazze, Savona, Albenga, Alassio, all the way to Imperia and San Remo. These cities are renowned for their cultivation of various types of flowers. It will be hard not to buy some to brighten up your room or to say I love you.
Don’t forget to taste the famous Genoese focaccia and the delicious dishes made with fresh seafood. Liguria will captivate you with its unique beauty and authentic traditional cuisine.
In the following video, you can witness some delightful dishes that you can savor in the Cinque Terre. (You can also watch the complete video at the following link: https://youtu.be/GfDQ7YohzjM?si=WIYXm9PBi5DxyCSc).
Now, let’s talk about something delicious – a pesto recipe.
FAQs for the Pesto Recipe
Frequently asked questions. Key details to know about basil and our Genovese pesto recipe.
What is a homemade pesto recipe?
A homemade pesto recipe is a culinary creation that combines fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt into a flavorful sauce.
Can I substitute any ingredients in a traditional pesto recipe?
You can, but it wouldn’t be a traditional authentic pesto. You can, for instance, use pistachios instead, but remember that the resulting pesto will be quite different from the traditional Genovese pesto recipe.
How long does homemade pesto last?
Homemade pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze pesto in ice cube trays and transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag for up to six months.
Is pesto sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, pesto sauce is suitable for vegetarians. It is primarily made with fresh herbs, nuts, cheese, and olive oil, all vegetarian-friendly ingredients.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor to make pesto?
You can do anything, but remember that basil is very sensitive to heat. So, when using a blender or mixer, be careful not to let the leaves darken too quickly. If you really want to use them, pulse the blades intermittently to prevent the basil leaves from overheating and keep them a nice green color.
What dishes can I use pesto sauce in?
Pesto sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes. It can be used with pasta, spread on sandwiches, marinated for grilled meats, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or even incorporated into salad dressings.
Are there any variations of pesto sauce from different regions?
Yes, there are regional variations of pesto sauce. For example, they make a pesto called Pesto alla Trapanese in Sicily using almonds, tomatoes, and pecorino cheese. Additionally, in Genoa, the birthplace of pesto, they often add a small amount of potatoes and green beans to their traditional recipe.
Can I make a vegan pesto sauce?
Absolutely! To make a vegan pesto sauce, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The rest of the ingredients remain the same.
How can I ensure my homemade pesto turns out vibrant green?
In the context of making a pesto recipe, it’s crucial to be aware of the rapid oxidation of basil, which can lead to a significant decrease in its nutritional value. To preserve the integrity of the basil’s nutrients, it is advisable to avoid cutting it into small pieces and instead focus on gathering its fresh leaves.
Authentic Homemade Pesto Recipe
Don’t assume that just because it has few ingredients, this recipe is too simple. With this pesto, you can treat your guests to a typical and delicious first course. Try it to believe it.
Ingredients for 4 people
Here is a traditional recipe for authentic Genovese pesto using a mortar:
Ingredients for 4 servings:
- 250g of basil leaves (1.06 cups)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 20g of pine nuts
- 1 teaspoon of marjoram
- Extra virgin olive oil, as needed
- 100g of grated spicy Pecorino cheese
In the video, you can find visuals for step 1.0 of the ingredients in the pesto recipe.
Genovese Pesto Recipe
- Thoroughly wash and dry the basil leaves.
- Place the leaves and garlic cloves in a mortar.
- Carefully pound until a paste forms.
- Add the pine nuts.
Refer to video step 1.1 for visual guidance on pounding the ingredients in the mortar.
- Grate the pecorino and add it to the mortar. Continue pounding for a few more minutes.
Refer to video step 1.2 for visual guidance on adding the pecorino.
- Add the oil (transfer to a bowl if the mortar is too small).
- Refer to video step 1.3 for visual guidance on adding the oil.
- Thoroughly mix all the ingredients.
- Drizzle some oil on top and cover with plastic wrap.
Refer to video step 1.4 for visual guidance on the finished pesto.
Enjoy this delicious pesto recipe!
Pesto Recipe – A Complete Menu with Genovese Flavors
You can use the pesto you just made with me for a delicious pasta dish, a very typical main course. You can also try making pesto lasagna by layering fresh pasta sheets in a baking dish with béchamel sauce mixed with pesto. Add some green beans, Parmesan cheese, and voila, another special main course.
If you want to prepare a tasty appetizer, you can mix pesto with mascarpone cheese, spread it on lightly toasted bread slices, top with a tomato slice, and voila, you have prepared another enticing recipe for your guests. The choice is yours.
Happy cooking from Aunt Cla.