A culinary preparation inspired by traditional Ligurian pesto, this variation omits pine nuts from its ingredient list. It commonly substitutes these nuts with alternatives like walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or even hemp seeds to achieve a similar texture and flavor profile. The resulting sauce typically consists of basil, garlic, hard cheese (such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano), olive oil, and the chosen nut or seed replacement.
This adaptation offers several advantages, including cost savings, given the often-high price of pine nuts. It also broadens accessibility for individuals with pine nut allergies or those seeking to reduce their consumption of tree nuts. Moreover, the use of different nut or seed varieties can introduce unique and appealing flavor nuances to the pesto, expanding the culinary possibilities beyond the traditional recipe. Historically, regional variations of pesto have existed, utilizing locally available ingredients, making this modern adaptation a continuation of that culinary tradition.
