Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italy with our authentic Pesto alla Genovese recipe. Made with fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil, this traditional sauce captures the essence of Genoa, the birthplace of pesto. Whether tossed with pasta or used as a spread, this aromatic pesto will transport you to the sun-drenched hills of Liguria with every bite.

Here's a classic recipe for Pesto alla Genovese:

Ingredients:

 - 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed

 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 - 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

 - 1/3 cup pine nuts

 - 3 garlic cloves, minced

 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1- Combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor or blender. Pulse until coarsely chopped.

2- Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse again.

3- While the food processor is running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula if necessary.

4- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5- Serve over pasta, spread on sandwiches, or use as a dip. Enjoy the taste of Italy!

Nutritional Values :

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients in Pesto alla Genovese per serving (based on a typical recipe serving 4):

Here's the nutritional information without bold font:

Fresh Basil Leaves (2 cups, packed):

  - Calories: 10

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 2 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits: Adds flavor and provides vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants.

Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 210

  - Fat: 14 g

  - Carbohydrates: 2 g

  - Protein: 19 g

Benefits: Adds flavor, protein, and calcium. Also contributes to the richness of the pesto.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 960

  - Fat: 108 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, and adds richness and flavor. Contains antioxidants and has heart-healthy properties.

Pine Nuts (1/3 cup):

  - Calories: 250

  - Fat: 22 g

  - Carbohydrates: 8 g

  - Protein: 5 g

Benefits: Adds a nutty flavor, healthy fats, protein, and some vitamins and minerals.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: 12

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 3 g

  - Protein: 0.6 g

Benefits: Adds flavor and may have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: 0

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to balance sodium intake.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and quantities used.