The Historic Concoction That Is Pesto

Ice cream. Burgers. Pizza. French fries. All food staples that have become synonymous with modern American cuisine, but there’s one particular Italian delicacy that’s been beloved by millions around the world for centuries, pesto.

History of Pesto

Originating in the northwestern region of Liguria in northern Italy centuries ago, pesto is as old as it is delicious. The oldest account of pesto dates all the way back to the 1600s, where Ligurian workmen would recreate a quick and easy sauce called ‘battuto’ to eat over their meals. Battuto was made by chopped, raw garlic and herbs mashed together with a mortar and pestle and served over a variety of dishes.

By the mid-1800s, a sweeter and more fragrant version of battuto began to be made by combining it with oil, basil, cheese and pine nuts. This new flavor became formally known as pesto, and to this day has remained a staple of Italian cuisine.

What Is Pesto?

Pesto is a bright and vibrant green sauce made from garlic, herbs, pine nuts, cheese, and oil. While traditionally it is made from basil, it is also commonly made from spinach, arugula and even kale. As a result, pesto can vary greatly in both taste and texture.

The most important part of making pesto is slow grinding the herb and other ingredients in order to ensure the fullest flavor. This slow grinding process is traditionally done with a mortar and pestle, but modern day pesto recipes often use a food processor.

Uses And Variations

Pesto was historically used as a condiment on pasta, providing a depth of flavor to the already beloved Italian classic. Today, it’s found in a number of recipes, ranging from soup to salads, bread, steak and even pizza. Its versatility has made it an international favorite, with many different countries adapting their own pesto recipes to their native flavors.

The most common variation on pesto is the use of different herbs and nuts. Each one provides a distinctive flavor and texture to the pesto. Nuts such as walnuts, cashews, almonds, and hazelnuts are often interchanged in place of traditional pine nuts. Herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and mint are also used to liven up the pesto base.

In Conclusion

Pesto is a beloved Italian delicacy that’s been around for centuries and has remained a staple of Italian cuisine. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and versatile, making it a favorite not only within the Italian culture but around the world. From people wanting to make a simple traditional pesto to the modern-day foodie looking to customize the sauce to their own tastes, pesto is a classic condiment that promises to be loved forever.