Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup pine nuts (can substitute walnuts or almonds)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Thoroughly wash and dry the basil leaves.
- In a food processor or blender, add the basil, pine nuts and garlic. Blend until you get a homogeneous mixture.
- Incorporates a little of the grated parmesan cheese and olive oil in a continuous yarn as you continue mixing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight jar covered with a thin layer of olive oil to preserve its freshness.
Nutritional information (per serving, about 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 18 g
- Proteins: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
Origins of the Pesto Sauce: A Legacy Italian
The pesto sauce is a native of the region of Liguria, in Italy, specifically from the city of Genoa. Its name comes from the verb Italian "pestare", which means to pound or crush, in reference to their traditional method of preparation in a mortar. Its history dates back to the roman era, when a similar sauce, known as "moretum", was prepared with garlic, cheese and aromatic herbs.
Over time, the recipe evolved to become the classic genovese pesto, made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Today, it is one of the sauces most appreciated of the Italian cuisine and has conquered palates around the world.
Benefits of the Pesto Sauce
In addition to its unmistakable flavor, pesto sauce offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants: Basil and olive oil contain antioxidant compounds that fight cell damage.
- Sources of healthy fats: The olive oil and pine nuts bring monounsaturated fatty acids beneficial to the heart.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The garlic and basil have anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Intake of calcium and protein: Thanks to the parmesan cheese and pesto are a good source of protein and calcium essential for bone health and muscle.
Creative variations of Pesto Sauce
While the pesto traditional is a culinary jewel, there are many variants delicious, they can be adapted to suit different preferences and diets:
- Pesto arugula: A more intense flavor with a touch of slightly spicy.
- Pesto spinach: Ideal for those looking for a milder version, and rich in iron.
- Pesto of dried tomatoes: An alternative more sweet and concentrated, perfect for pasta and bruschetta.
- Pesto vegan: Substituting the parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast or ground almonds.
- Pesto avocado: A version, creamy, and refreshing drink that combines perfectly with salads and roasted.
How to Use the Pesto Sauce in the Kitchen
Pesto is a sauce versatile that it can transform any dish into a gourmet experience:
- With pasta: The most classic of enjoy it, mixed with hot pasta and a little of the cooking water for a silky texture.
- About pizzas: In place of tomato sauce, the pesto gives a twist delicious any homemade pizza.
- Sandwiches and wraps: A tablespoon of pesto sauce can enhance the flavor of any sandwich.
- As a dressing for salads: Mixed with yogurt, or extra oil, it is a dressing ideal for fresh salads.
- An accompaniment to meat and fish: The pesto combines perfectly with chicken, salmon and white meat.
Fun facts about the Pesto Sauce
- The original recipe for the pesto is protected by the Consorzio del Pesto Genovese, an Italian organization dedicated to preserving its authenticity.
- In Genoa is celebrated annually on the "World Championship Pesto", where chefs from around the world compete to make the best pesto craft.
- For the italians the use of the mortar and pestle is key to a pesto authentic, as the metal of the food processors can slightly alter the flavor.
- In some of the Italian restaurants, the pesto is served with "trofie", a type of short pasta and twisted typical of Liguria, designed to catch better the sauce.
Conclusion
The pesto sauce is much more than a simple mixture of basil and pine nuts; it's a culinary tradition that has transcended generations and borders. Whether on a pasta classic, a sandwich, or as a special touch on your favorite dishes, its fresh taste and aromatic makes it one of the sauces most appreciated in the world.
I dare to make your own pesto at home and discover how this delicious sauce can transform your kitchen! Tell us in the comments, what is your favorite way to enjoy pesto?
