The Best Pesto alla Genovese (Classic Basil Pesto Sauce)

Name: The Best Pesto alla Genovese (Classic Basil Pesto Sauce)
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium cloves garlic; 2 tablespoons (30g) pine nuts; 3 ounces basil leaves (from about a 4-ounce bunch), washed with water still clinging to the leaves; Coarse sea salt, as needed; 3/4 ounce (about 2 tablespoons) grated Parmigiano Reggiano; 3/4 ounce (about 2 tablespoons) Pecorino Fiore Sardo (see note); 3/4 cup (175ml) mildly flavored extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

Prep:30min

We tested every variable to find the best method and ingredients to make the ultimate Genovese-style basil pesto sauce that tastes just like it came from the Ligurian hills of Italy.

Updated at: Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:14:10 GMT