Levanto: Pesto-Making Class

Levanto, a picturesque coastal town in Italy, is home to the renowned "Laboratory of Pesto" where visitors can enjoy the art of pesto-making. This hands-on 1.5-hour class welcomes up to 8 participants and is led by friendly instructors who guide them through the traditional techniques of grinding fresh basil, pine nuts, and garlic. The experience culminates in tasting the homemade pesto paired with local wine and delicacies, offering a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Liguria. But what makes this class truly special is…

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour pesto-making class at Levanto’s "Laboratory of Pesto", priced from $47.88 per person and limited to 8 participants in Italian and English.
• Participants use a mortar and pestle to grind the essential pesto ingredients like basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano cheese, and extra virgin olive oil.
• The class provides a hands-on learning experience with traditional Ligurian pesto-making techniques, guided by a welcoming instructor.
• The class includes tasting of the handcrafted pesto, a glass of local white wine, and sampling of regional delicacies like olives and bruschetta.
• The class has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 146 reviews, with positive feedback on the welcoming atmosphere and detailed instruction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Class Overview

The pesto-making class at Levanto’s "Laboratory of Pesto" is a 1.5-hour activity that allows participants to learn the traditional Ligurian method of preparing this iconic Italian condiment.

Priced from $47.88 per person, the class is limited to 8 participants and offered in both Italian and English.

It’s wheelchair accessible, and guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The class features a hands-on pesto-making experience using a mortar and pestle, followed by a tasting of the homemade pesto paired with local wine and appetizers.

Ligurian Pesto-Making Experience

Established since 1976, the "Laboratory of Pesto" in Levanto’s historical center provides the perfect setting for guests to learn the traditional Ligurian method of pesto-making.

Under the guidance of a welcoming instructor, participants use a mortar and pestle to grind together the essential ingredients – basil, salt, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano cheese, and extra virgin olive oil.

After the hands-on lesson, guests enjoy sampling the freshly prepared pesto paired with a glass of white wine and local specialties like olives and bruschetta with anchovies.

It’s a delightful experience that immerses participants in Ligurian culinary traditions.

Ingredients and Techniques

Though the Laboratory of Pesto in Levanto has been perfecting its pesto-making techniques since 1976, the class prioritizes hands-on learning.

Participants will use a traditional mortar and pestle to create the classic Ligurian pesto. The ingredients include:

1. Fresh basil leaves

2. Pine nuts

3. Garlic cloves

4. Parmigiano cheese and extra virgin olive oil

The instructor will guide students through the process, ensuring they understand the importance of each ingredient and the proper techniques for grinding and blending.

The goal is for participants to leave with the skills to replicate the authentic flavors of Levanto’s pesto at home.

Tasting and Pairing

After mastering the art of pesto-making, participants can look forward to tasting their handcrafted creation.

The class includes a glass of local white wine to perfectly complement the fresh pesto. Participants will also sample other regional delicacies, such as olives and bruschetta with anchovies.

The pesto is served with a selection of fresh bread, allowing guests to fully savor the flavors. This tasting experience provides a well-rounded introduction to Ligurian cuisine and culture.

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Included Features

The pesto-making class includes several featured experiences for participants.

The class covers:

1. The pesto-making process, where attendees learn to prepare traditional Ligurian pesto using a mortar and pestle.

2. A tasting of the homemade pesto paired with a glass of white wine and local delicacies like olives and bruschetta with anchovies.

3. An olive oil tasting, allowing participants to explore the flavors of premium extra virgin olive oil.

4. A full lunch or dinner, providing a complete culinary experience.

These included features ensure a well-rounded and immersive introduction to the art of pesto-making in Levanto.

Customer Feedback

According to over 146 customer reviews, the pesto-making class has received an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers highlight the enjoyable sampling of different pesto varieties, local wines, and appetizers. The class’s welcoming atmosphere and detailed instruction on pesto variations are also praised.

| What Guests Enjoyed |

| — | — | — |

| Sampling different pesto types | Tasting local wines and appetizers | Learning about pesto variations |

| "Enjoyed sampling different types of pesto, local wine, and lemon cake." – Emma, UK | "Great activity for a rainy day; cute and welcoming shop." – Chelsea, Australia | "Welcoming instructor, detailed learning about pesto variations, enjoyable experience with local wine." – Ella, UK |

Meeting Point and Availability

The pesto-making class takes place at Il laboratorio del Pesto, located in Levanto’s historical center.

The class is offered at various times throughout the day, so you can choose a starting time that works best for your schedule. To check availability and make your reservation, simply visit the class listing online.

There are a few key things to keep in mind:

1. The class is limited to 8 participants, so book early to secure your spot.

2. The class is offered in both Italian and English, so you can choose the language you’re most comfortable with.

3. The class venue is wheelchair accessible.

4. You can cancel your reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking and Reservations

Booking your spot for the pesto-making class is easy and convenient. You can reserve your place online or by phone.

Simply select your preferred date and time, and provide the necessary details. Payment isn’t required upfront; you can pay on the day of the class.

Simply select your preferred date and time, and provide the necessary details. Payment isn’t required upfront; you can pay on the day of the class.

There’s also a free cancellation policy, allowing you to get a full refund if you need to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

With limited group sizes, it’s recommended to book early to secure your spot.

Don’t miss out on this delightful opportunity to learn the art of traditional Ligurian pesto making.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Ingredients to the Class?

The class provides all the necessary ingredients, so participants don’t need to bring their own. However, if you have any dietary restrictions, you can inform the instructor in advance to accommodate your needs.

Is the Class Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?

The class is suitable for vegetarians, as it focuses on making traditional Ligurian pesto without any meat products. However, it may not be suitable for vegans as the pesto contains Parmigiano cheese. The instructor can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.

What Is the Dress Code for the Pesto-Making Class?

The pesto-making class doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Participants should wear closed-toe shoes and dress for an interactive cooking experience in a small group setting.

Can I Take the Leftover Pesto Home With Me?

Yes, participants can take home the pesto they make during the class. The class includes instructions on how to properly store the pesto so it can be enjoyed later.

Is There an Option to Extend the Class Duration?

The class doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration, but you can ask the instructor if they offer any longer pesto-making experiences. They may be able to accommodate your request for a more in-depth class.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Liguria by taking part in a hands-on pesto-making class in Levanto. You’ll learn traditional techniques for grinding fresh basil, pine nuts, and garlic, and then savor your homemade creation paired with local wine and regional specialties. This 1.5-hour class is an ideal way to experience the art of pesto-making.

You can check availability for your dates here: