Make the Ultimate Genovese Pesto at Home

Discover the secrets of making authentic pesto at this online Italian cooking class.



1 hour Class size 1 to 20 guests       £25 (PayPal Pay in 3 available)

Join this online cooking masterclass and discover the secrets to creating the world’s most famous green sauce from the comfort of your own kitchen. Drawing on ten years of professional experience, your expert teacher will guide you through the authentic Genovese tradition to ensure your pesto is as vibrant and aromatic as those found in Italy.
You'll work with fresh, fragrant basil and learn the precise techniques required to keep your sauce a stunning, bright green. The session covers the perfect balance of ingredients, including garlic, toasted pine nuts, and the ideal blend of aged Parmigiano and Pecorino cheeses. You'll also master the secret to a creamy 'mantecatura' to perfectly coat your spaghetti, bringing the true taste of Liguria to your dinner table.
During this hands-on workshop, you'll pick up tips on:
  • Selecting the best fresh ingredients – Choose the right basil and cheeses for an authentic flavour.
  • Mastering the traditional method – Learn the steps to achieve a smooth, consistent texture.
  • Balancing flavours – Understand how to adjust garlic and nuts to suit your palate.
  • Perfecting the 'mantecatura' – Discover how to toss your pasta like a pro for a silky finish.
This session offers a wonderful way to switch off and focus on a timeless culinary skill. You'll finish the class feeling like a confident home chef, ready to impress friends and family with your newfound expertise and a delicious, handmade meal.
Knowledge required
No previous experience needed! I will guide you through the delicate process of handling basil and balancing flavours. Perfect for anyone who wants to learn how to make fresh, authentic pesto that beats any store-bought jar.
What to bring
For the pesto:
  • 50g fresh basil (small leaves are best).
  • 1 garlic clove.
  • 15g pine nuts.
  • 50g Parmigiano Reggiano.
  • 15g Pecorino Romano.
  • 100ml extra virgin olive oil.
  • A pinch of coarse salt.
  • 5 cherry tomatoes.
For the pasta:
100g spaghetti.
Tools:
  • Mortar and pestle or small food processor/blender.
  • Large pot.
  • Mixing bowl.
Your teacher

Chef Alex
Chef Alex

female Women-owned

Hi! I’m Alex and I’m an Italian professional chef, I’ve spent the last 10 years working in professional kitchens across the UK. My journey in the culinary world has been driven by a deep passion for the authentic flavours of my Italian heritage, combined with the precision and elegance of fine dining.
I love teaching because I believe that anyone can transform a simple, traditional dish into a masterpiece. In my classes, I don’t just share recipes; I share the "5-star secrets" of professional plating and decoration that I've gathered throughout my career.
Most people think that restaurant-style presentation is only for professionals, but I’m here to show you that with a few simple techniques and a bit of heart, you can create stunning, gallery-worthy dishes in your own kitchen. Whether we are making a creamy Carbonara or a perfect Tiramisù or fresh pasta, my goal is to help you feel like a Chef. I can't wait to cook and create something beautiful with you!"

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2026-07-03 15:00:00
class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production london London London GB london