Genoa: Walnut Pesto Mortar Masterclass with Tasting and Wine

Dive into Genoa’s Traditional Walnut Pesto with a Hands-On Masterclass

This 3-hour culinary experience in Genoa offers a rare chance to learn how to prepare authentic Ligurian walnut pesto using a marble mortar and wooden pestle, just as grandmothers did for generations. Hosted in a cozy local bottega within Genoa’s historic center, this small-group activity limits participation to 6 people, ensuring an intimate, personalized atmosphere. For a cost of around 50-60 euros, you get to hands-on crush walnuts, blend ingredients, and taste your creation with fresh pasta and Ligurian wine.

While the class is highly praised for its authenticity and warm host interaction, it’s worth noting that it caters best to those interested in traditional, gluten, dairy, and nut-inclusive recipes. The experience concludes with a 90g jar of artisan pesto to take home, making it a practical souvenir of your Ligurian culinary journey.

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Key Points

• Hands-on pesto making using a marble mortar and pestle
• Learn a mountain Ligurian recipe passed down through generations
• Includes pasta tasting and a local Ligurian wine (Vermentino or Ciliegiolo)
• Participants receive a pesto jar to take home and a personalized certificate
• Hosted at BioTigullio5Terre in Genoa’s historic center, just minutes from the House of Christopher Columbus
• Limited to 6 participants, ensuring a small, friendly environment

Learning to Make Walnut Pesto in Genoa’s Old Town

The Genoa Walnut Pesto Masterclass begins at BioTigullio5Terre, located at Via di Ravecca 51/r. This small shop is easy to find, marked by a large wooden sign, and only 3 minutes walk from the House of Christopher Columbus. The setting offers an authentic, non-touristy atmosphere, emphasizing local traditions rather than polished, commercial kitchens.

The class duration of 3 hours allows ample time to understand each step of making walnut pesto. The session involves crushing walnuts and other ingredients by hand, with guidance from knowledgeable hosts. The focus is on traditional techniques: using a Carrara marble mortar and wooden pestle, just as Ligurian grandmothers have done for decades. The ingredients include Italian walnuts, bread soaked in milk, Parmigiano Reggiano, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a touch of marjoram.

Preparing Authentic Walnut Pesto with a Traditional Method

The process revolves around manual crushing and blending of ingredients, which helps participants understand the texture and flavor balance required for perfect pesto. The creamy consistency is achieved through careful mortar and pestle work, rather than machine processing.

Throughout the class, the history of walnut pesto is explained, highlighting its importance in Ligurian mountain cuisine and how it differs from the more famous basil pesto. This focus on tradition and simple, wholesome ingredients makes the recipe stand apart from commercial versions.

Tasting at the Heart of Genoa’s Historic Center

After mastering the pesto, participants sit down to enjoy it paired with freshly made pasta, often trofie or pansotti. The pasta is cooked during the class, ensuring it’s hot and fresh at serving time. Alongside, a local Ligurian wine—either Vermentino from Colli di Luni or Ciliegiolo from Tigullio Gulf—complements the flavors beautifully.

The tasting experience is simple but satisfying, emphasizing local ingredients and manual preparation. The hosts’ warm personalized attention enhances the convivial atmosphere, making each participant feel like they are part of a local tradition.

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The Pesto Jar and Certificate: Memorable Souvenirs

One of the most appreciated parts of this class is the 90g jar of artisan walnut pesto gifted to each participant. This handmade pesto is a practical reminder of the skills learned, and many find it a delightful treat to share later. Participants also receive a personalized certificate of participation, adding a special touch to the experience.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The class is suitable for adults and children over 10 years old. It is vegetarian-friendly but not vegan or gluten-free, as the recipe includes dairy, walnuts, and bread soaked in milk. Guests with severe nut, dairy, or gluten allergies are advised against participation.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as the activity involves manual work. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and small pets are allowed inside. The small group size ensures personal attention but may limit availability, so early booking is recommended, with the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

The Guides and Atmosphere of the Workshop

The host leads participants through each step with friendly clarity, sharing stories about the recipe’s origins and regional significance. The small group setting fosters lively interaction and personalized guidance, making it ideal for those who enjoy hands-on learning and local storytelling.

The atmosphere in the traditional bottega is warm and authentic, offering a genuine taste of Genoa’s culinary culture. The pace is relaxed, with enough time to ask questions and perfect technique.

Comparing This Experience to Other Cooking Classes in Genoa

Unlike larger, commercial cooking schools, this class emphasizes local tradition and manual techniques. It offers a more intimate, authentic environment with personalized attention from hosts. The focus on walnut pesto sets it apart from other Genoa cooking classes, which often feature more general Ligurian dishes.

This class is especially appealing for foodies eager to learn a lesser-known regional specialty or those interested in traditional Ligurian mountain cuisine. The small group size and local setting contribute to a more genuine, memorable experience.

Why the Walnut Pesto Masterclass Stands Out

This activity’s authenticity and hands-on approach are key strengths. Making walnut pesto the traditional way with marble mortar and pestle provides a rare opportunity to connect with regional culinary roots. The inclusion of a pasta tasting, local wine, and a take-home pesto jar offers great value for the moderate price.

The positive reviews highlight the friendly host, the delicious food, and the personalized experience. The only potential downside is that the class may not suit those with specific allergies or strict dietary restrictions, due to the recipe ingredients.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Genoa Pesto Class

This experience is perfect for food lovers who appreciate hands-on learning and want to dive into Ligurian culinary traditions. It suits adults and children over 10 who are comfortable with nuts, dairy, and gluten. Travelers seeking a small, authentic activity away from touristy spots will find this class especially rewarding.

For those interested in regional recipes and manual techniques, this class provides valuable skills and a genuine taste of Genoa’s mountain cuisine. It’s an ideal choice for culinary curiosity and cultural connection.

Final Thoughts on the Genoa Walnut Pesto Masterclass

This 3-hour workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn how to prepare traditional Ligurian walnut pesto using authentic tools and ingredients. Its small-group format and local setting create a personalized, warm environment. The inclusion of pasta tasting and local wine complements the hands-on activity perfectly.

While it’s best suited for those without nut, dairy, or gluten allergies, this class provides a meaningful glimpse into Ligurian food culture. The take-home pesto and participation certificate make it a practical and memorable souvenir. This activity offers delicious food, expert guidance, and an authentic taste of Genoa’s culinary heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this class suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children over 10 years old.

What ingredients are used in the pesto?
The recipe includes Italian walnuts, bread soaked in milk, Parmigiano Reggiano, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and marjoram.

Can I participate if I have nut allergies?
No, the class is not recommended for guests with severe nut allergies.

Is the experience vegetarian?
Yes, the class is vegetarian-friendly but not vegan.

What wines are served with the pasta?
Guests can choose between Vermentino from Colli di Luni or Ciliegiolo from Tigullio Gulf.

How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours.

What do I get at the end of the class?
Participants receive a jar of artisan walnut pesto and a personalized certificate.

Where does the class take place?
Inside the BioTigullio5Terre shop at Via di Ravecca 51/r, Genoa.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby