Authentic Hand-Ground Pesto

This vibrant green sauce, bursting with flavor, comes from the Liguria region of Italy. Among its many variations, authentic hand-ground pesto is crafted with a mortar and pestle, is noted for its rich texture and aromatic qualities

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/4 cup pine nuts

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled

• Salt, to taste

  
  

Start by rinsing the fresh basil leaves under cold water to remove any dirt. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Make sure to use only the leaves—discard the stems for the best results.

First, place the garlic cloves and a pinch of salt into the mortar. Use the pestle to crush the garlic into a paste. Now, add the pine nuts. Grind them with the pestle until they form a coarse paste.

Gradually incorporate the leaves in small batches into the mortar. Grind them into the pine nut mixture using a circular motion while pressing down with the pestle. Once the basil is well blended, add the grated Parmesan cheese.

Now, gently drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the mixture. Stir the pesto with the pestle while pouring, ensuring even distribution throughout the sauce.

There are countless ways to enjoy this vibrant sauce: toss it with your favorite pasta, spread it on toasted bread, or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables.

TIPS

For an even more vibrant pesto, lightly bruise the basil leaves in your hands before adding them to the mortar. This simple technique releases essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor.