Cooking Class Pesto Sauce

Discover How to Make Authentic Ligurian Pesto in Sanremo

This Sanremo-based cooking class offers a hands-on opportunity to learn the art of preparing Pesto alla genovese, a dish that’s synonymous with Ligurian cuisine. The experience is led by a local culinary expert who guides you through every step — from selecting fresh basil to grinding pine nuts using traditional tools. At just over two hours, it promises a flavorful, informative escape into Italy’s culinary heritage, with a manageable price of around $80 per person.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines learning and tasting in a cozy, small-group setting. The use of traditional tools like a marble mortar and wooden pestle isn’t just for show; it’s the key to unlocking the true flavor of Liguria’s signature sauce. On the flip side, a consideration for some might be that this is a shared experience limited to 4-6 people, which is ideal for intimate learning but might feel less private for those seeking complete privacy.

Perfectly suited for food lovers eager to get their hands dirty in the kitchen, this class appeals to travelers who want an authentic, cultural culinary experience. If you’re curious about Italian food traditions or simply love mastering new skills, this class offers more than just a recipe—it’s a chance to connect with Ligurian culture.

Key Points

Authentic Technique: Traditional pesto made with local basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, prepared in a marble mortar and pestle.
Cultural Insight: Learn the history behind Genoese pesto from a knowledgeable local chef.
Tasting Experience: Enjoy freshly prepared pesto served with Ligurian extra-virgin olive oil and Taggiasca olives.
Recipe & Certificate: Take home a recipe and a Med Food Lab certificate recognizing your culinary achievement.
Group Size: Small groups of 4-6 ensure personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
Convenient Meeting Point: Located right in front of Sanremo Casino, easy for travelers to find.

An In-Depth Look at the Pesto Making Experience

The Setting and Group Dynamics

The meeting point is in front of Sanremo’s iconic Casino, a recognizable landmark that makes arriving straightforward. The class is designed for small groups—no more than 12 participants—so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get hands-on assistance. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere is welcoming, with the host, often described as a very knowledgeable and friendly guide, setting a warm tone. One reviewer even commented, “Very nice host with a lot of knowledge about cooking and the region,” highlighting the approachable, educational vibe.

The Pesto Preparation

The core of the experience is making pesto “the traditional way.” You’ll start by choosing the freshest ingredients—local basil, pine nuts, extra-virgin olive oil, and PDO Riviera Ligure olives. The chef will explain the significance of each ingredient, not just in flavor but in cultural context. The focus on using a marble mortar and wooden pestle isn’t just aesthetic—it’s the traditional method for releasing the aromatic oils and flavors that electric blenders simply can’t replicate.

During the process, you’ll see firsthand how the texture and consistency can differ depending on the grinding technique. Making pesto with a mortar and pestle is a slow, meditative process that emphasizes skill and patience. One reviewer described it as “deep insight into Italian cooking,” and noted how the host’s guidance made the process approachable even for beginners.

The Tasting and Final Dishes

After preparing your pesto, you’ll toss it with pasta, which is served alongside generous drizzles of Ligurian extra-virgin olive oil and savory Taggiasca olives. The tasting experience is a highlight: fresh pesto, paired with high-quality local olive oil, makes a real difference in flavor. Many guests comment on how delicious and aromatic the finished product is, often remarking that they’d never tasted pesto quite like this before.

Educational Value & Take-Home Skills

Beyond making pesto, you’ll learn about its cultural importance—recognition by UNESCO as a potential intangible cultural heritage—and the history behind this beloved Ligurian condiment. The class provides a recipe card, so you can replicate your new skills back home. Plus, you’ll receive a Med Food Lab certificate, adding a touch of authenticity and pride to your culinary journey.

Additional Highlights

• Sampling of olive oil and Taggiasca olives adds depth to the tasting and understanding of Ligurian ingredients.
• Option for friends or family to join for dinner (price on request), which is perfect if you want to extend the experience.
• Flexible timing at 5:30 pm makes it suitable for those who prefer evening activities.

Analyzing the Value

At $80.41 per person, this class offers a lot of value. You’re not only learning a traditional technique but also gaining insight into Ligurian culture and enjoying top-quality ingredients. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it a more intimate and memorable learning experience. The inclusion of a recipe and certificate means you’ll leave with tangible souvenirs of your efforts.

While it doesn’t include transportation or hotel pickup, the convenient meeting point makes it easy for most travelers to join. The option to purchase additional dinners or experiences nearby allows for a flexible and customizable day.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This class is ideal for culinary travelers eager to get hands-on with authentic Italian cooking. It’s perfect for those interested in cultural traditions and wanting to learn the story behind their favorite dishes. Foodies who enjoy tasting local ingredients — like Ligurian olive oil and Taggiasca olives — will find this especially rewarding.

It also suits travelers who appreciate small-group settings that foster interaction, learning, and sharing. If you’re visiting Sanremo and looking for an activity that combines culture, skill, and delicious food, this pesto class is a strong choice.

The Sum Up

This Cooking Class Pesto Sauce in Sanremo offers a genuine peek into Ligurian culinary heritage. You’ll learn the traditional art of making pesto with a local chef, using time-honored tools that unlock the true flavors of fresh basil and pine nuts. The tasting, coupled with insights into regional ingredients, makes it a delicious and educational experience.

The small-group format creates an engaging, friendly environment, perfect for those who want to connect, learn, and taste. The inclusion of a recipe and certificate enhances its value, making it an excellent choice for foodies and cultural explorers alike.

While it might not be the best fit for travelers seeking private or extensive culinary tours, it offers a perfect balance of authenticity, expertise, and fun — all for a reasonable price. This experience is especially suited for curious travelers who want to bring home more than just memories, but also a skill and deeper understanding of Ligurian cuisine.

FAQ

Do I need cooking experience to join this class?
No, the class is suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike. The host provides clear guidance, making it accessible for all skill levels.

What ingredients will I use during the class?
You’ll work with local basil, pine nuts, Ligurian olive oil, and Taggiasca olives—ingredients that are essential for authentic pesto.

Is the class held indoors or outdoors?
The description indicates a meeting point in front of Sanremo Casino, but the actual setting for the cooking is indoors, in a kitchen environment suitable for hands-on learning.

Can I bring friends or family who are not cooking?
Yes, friends or family members can join for dinner (additional cost applies). The focus of the class is on cooking, but non-participants are welcome to partake in the tasting.

How long does the experience last?
The class lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 5:30 pm, making it a perfect evening activity.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 18 years old, due to alcohol and safety considerations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended since there might be some movement in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or someone eager to learn a new skill, this pesto-making experience in Sanremo offers an authentic, flavorful taste of Liguria’s culinary soul.