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pesto alla genovese recipe.

 

🌿 Authentic Pesto alla Genovese Recipe

Pesto alla Genovese is a classic Italian sauce from Genoa, Liguria, made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Its name comes from the Italian word “pestare”, which means “to crush,” referring to the traditional method of preparing it in a mortar and pestle. This fragrant green sauce is simple, versatile, and a must-have in every kitchen.

🥬 Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves (washed and dried)
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino)
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare basil – Wash basil leaves and pat them dry to prevent water from thinning the sauce.
  2. Crush ingredients – Traditionally, use a mortar and pestle to crush garlic, pine nuts, and basil until smooth. (You can also use a food processor for convenience.)
  3. Add cheese – Mix in Parmesan cheese for creaminess.
  4. Pour olive oil – Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until you get a smooth, thick sauce.
  5. Season – Add salt to taste and adjust consistency with a little extra oil if needed.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions for Pesto alla Genovese

  • Toss with spaghetti, linguine, or trofie pasta for a quick meal.
  • Spread on bruschetta, sandwiches, or wraps for a flavorful twist.
  • Use as a pizza sauce base instead of tomato sauce.
  • Mix into salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken.
  • Add a spoonful to soups or risottos for extra depth of flavor.

❓ FAQs about Pesto alla Genovese

Q1: Can I make pesto without pine nuts?
Yes, you can substitute with walnuts, cashews, or almonds for a budget-friendly version.

Q2: How long does homemade pesto last?
It lasts 4–5 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Cover the surface with olive oil to keep it fresh.

Q3: Can I freeze pesto?
Yes. Store in ice cube trays for individual portions, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Q4: What’s the difference between pesto and Pesto alla Genovese?
“Pesto” is a general term for crushed sauces, while Pesto alla Genovese refers specifically to the basil-based Ligurian recipe.

Q5: Is Pesto alla Genovese vegan?
Traditionally, it contains cheese, but you can make it vegan by using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

🌿 Similar Recipes to Pesto alla Genovese :

  1. Pesto Rosso (Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto) – Made with tomatoes, garlic, and almonds.
  2. Walnut Pesto (Pesto di Noci) – Creamy pesto with walnuts and olive oil.
  3. Rocket (Arugula) Pesto – Peppery version using fresh arugula instead of basil.
  4. Pistachio Pesto – A Sicilian twist with pistachios for a nutty flavor.
  5. Spinach Pesto – A lighter, budget-friendly version using spinach leaves.

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