Mortar Pesto Lesson with World Champion and Local Menu with Wine

The Unique Opportunity to Learn from a World Champion

The Mortar Pesto Lesson with Camilla Pizzorno offers a rare chance to learn how to make Genoese pesto directly from a reigning World Champion. This 1.5-hour experience in Liguria, Italy, provides not only a step-by-step pesto preparation using authentic ingredients and traditional techniques but also an immersive taste of local cuisine paired with regional Riviera wine and Italian liqueurs.

The class is hosted in a cozy, authentic setting—either in a lush summer garden or a heated outdoor space during winter—enhancing the genuine Ligurian atmosphere. With limited group sizes of up to 6 participants, the experience feels highly personal, allowing plenty of interaction with Camilla Pizzorno, who became the youngest-ever winner of the World Pesto al Mortaio Championship in 2022.

While the focus is on pesto, this experience also includes tasting Genoese focaccia, trofie with pesto, and traditional Italian tiramisu. The overall package delivers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Liguria’s culinary heritage, making it an attractive choice for food lovers and those seeking an engaging, hands-on activity in Genoa.

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Key Points

• Authentic pesto making guided by Camilla Pizzorno, a World Champion.
• 1.5-hour class in a small group setting for personalized attention.
• The pesto is prepared with century-old marble mortar and vintage pestle.
• Includes tasting Genoese focaccia, trofie with pesto, and Italian tiramisu.
• Paired with Liguria wine and Italian liqueurs like limoncello and grappa.
• Location: Summer garden or heated outdoor area, ensuring comfort year-round.

The Experience Begins in a Ligurian Garden

Participants are welcomed into a typical Ligurian garden, either surrounded by greenery in summer or in a heated outdoor space in winter. This setting offers a relaxed, authentic atmosphere that reflects the region’s outdoor lifestyle and love for fresh air. The hosts—Camilla Pizzorno, the youngest World Champion, and her family—create a warm, welcoming environment that feels more like visiting friends than a typical cooking class.

The location’s charm lies in its outdoor setting, which adds to the sensory delights—fresh basil scent, the rustic views, and the natural light. For those concerned about bad weather, the covered, heated outdoor space ensures the experience remains comfortable without losing its outdoor charm.

Recognizing and Choosing Quality Ingredients

The first step focuses on identifying high-quality ingredients responsible for authentic Ligurian flavor. Participants learn to distinguish Genovese D.O.P. basil, Vessalico garlic, Italian pine nuts, and Parmigiano Reggiano aged 24 months. They also explore Fiore Sardo pecorino, extra virgin olive oil from Liguria, and coarse salt, understanding how each element influences the final pesto.

This emphasis on ingredient quality ensures that the pesto made during the class is true to tradition and packed with aroma. The guide explains the role of each component, enhancing appreciation for Ligurian culinary craftsmanship.

Making Pesto with a Century-Old Marble Mortar

The heart of the experience is crafting pesto with traditional tools. Camilla guides participants as they use a large Carrara marble mortar over 100 years old and a hand-carved olive wood pestle. The step-by-step process follows original techniques, emphasizing gentle crushing and folding gestures passed down through generations.

Using such historic equipment not only connects participants to tradition but also influences the texture and flavor of the pesto. This method allows the pesto to develop a richer aroma compared to modern blender techniques, making the experience both educational and sensory.

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Tasting the Freshly Made Pesto

Once prepared, the pesto is served as an appetizer alongside Genoese focaccia. It is paired with typical Ligurian pasta such as trofie or homemade gnocchi, allowing participants to savor the direct result of their labor.

The emphasis on freshness and traditional pairing makes this tasting especially satisfying. The pesto’s aromatic freshness and balanced richness showcase Camilla’s skill and her secrets—shared during the class—making it a memorable tasting experience.

Sampling Ligurian Dishes and Italian Liqueurs

The culinary part of the experience culminates with traditional Italian tiramisu, adding a sweet finish to the meal. The dishes are complemented by Liguria wine and Italian liqueurs like limoncello, myrtle, grappa, and Camatti bitters.

This combination provides a well-rounded taste of Liguria’s local flavors, offering both savory and sweet options, all served in a convivial, relaxed setting. The inclusion of local wines and liqueurs enhances the authentic feel and elevates the tasting to a celebratory level.

Souvenir Materials and Certificates of Experience

At the end of the class, participants receive the original recipe of Camilla’s pesto in PDF format via text message. They can also access photos and videos from their session if desired. To cap off the experience, a small gift is given—allowing attendees to take a piece of Liguria home.

This thoughtful touch adds value, making the experience memorable beyond the session itself. The recipe, in particular, offers a lasting souvenir and practical guide to recreate the pesto at home.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour departs from a well-specified meeting point with coordinates 44.4259, 8.8104. Participants are advised to arrive 5 minutes early. The experience is inside a covered and heated outdoor space in case of bad weather, ensuring comfort regardless of weather conditions.

The group size is intentionally kept small—limited to six participants—for a more intimate, engaging class. Transportation can be arranged upon request, adding convenience for visitors unfamiliar with local transport options.

Advantages of This Pesto Class in Genoa

One of the key strengths is the guidance by Camilla Pizzorno, the World Champion, who shares her secrets and genuine passion for pesto-making. Her expertise ensures that participants learn techniques that are both authentic and practical, making it ideal for foodies eager to master traditional Ligurian pesto.

The authentic setting, with historic tools and locally sourced ingredients, distinguishes this experience from more generic cooking classes. The inclusion of regional dishes and drinks turns it into a full sensory experience, highlighting Liguria’s culinary identity.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, which may feel brief for those wanting an in-depth culinary immersion. Also, since the experience involves handling ingredients and tools, some physical effort is needed, though it remains accessible for most.

Participants with allergies or intolerances are advised to inform the organizers when booking, as some ingredients like garlic and nuts are involved. The experience takes place mostly outdoors, so dressing appropriately for the weather is recommended, especially in winter.

The Best Fit for Food Lovers and Cultural Enthusiasts

This class is best suited for those interested in authentic Ligurian cuisine, especially pesto lovers eager to learn from a world champion. It’s also ideal for small groups or families looking for a warm, personal experience in an authentic setting. The combination of hands-on prep, tasting, and cultural insights makes it a rewarding activity for foodies and curious travelers alike.

Final Thoughts on the Ligurian Pesto Experience

The Mortar Pesto Lesson with Camilla Pizzorno offers a genuine taste of Genoa’s culinary craft. The opportunity to learn from a world champion using traditional tools makes this class special, while the inclusion of local dishes and drinks rounds out the experience beautifully.

While the duration is relatively short, the personalized attention, authentic setting, and expert guidance provide excellent value. This experience suits those wanting to deepen their understanding of Ligurian cuisine and enjoy a memorable, hands-on activity that celebrates Italy’s flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the pesto class last?
The experience lasts about 1.5 hours.

What is included in the class?
Participants learn to make Genoese pesto, taste it with focaccia and pasta, and enjoy tiramisù, Liguria wine, and Italian liqueurs.

Who leads the pesto lesson?
The class is guided by Camilla Pizzorno, the World Champion of Pesto al Mortaio.

Where does the class take place?
It’s held in a summer garden or a heated outdoor space in Liguria, surrounded by greenery.

What tools are used for pesto preparation?
A large Carrara marble mortar over 100 years old and olive wood pestle are used, following traditional techniques.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Guests with allergies or intolerances should inform organizers when booking.

Is transportation available?
Yes, transportation arrangements can be made upon request.

What is the group size?
The class is limited to 6 participants for a more intimate experience.

Will I receive a recipe?
Yes, attendees receive the original pesto recipe in PDF format as a souvenir.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, the class is accessible, and some reviews mention family participation, but physical effort may be required.

What makes this experience stand out?
The guidance by a world champion, authentic tools, and regional cuisine make this class truly memorable.

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