How to make Trenette al Pesto Genovese

Why cooks start here

Trenette al Pesto Genovese is cooked in Genoa. The flavor comes from the ingredients in this recipe and the way that place finishes the bowl.

Trenette al Pesto Genovese hails from the sun-soaked city of Genoa, where the Ligurian hills provide bountiful basil that forms the heart of this dish. Traditionally enjoyed during family meals or festive occasions, this pasta embodies the region's love for simplicity paired with bold flavors. Each ingredient tells a story of local pride and culinary tradition, making it a staple in Genoese kitchens. The dish is a harmonious blend of trenette pasta coated with a rich, fragrant pesto made from fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The addition of tender green beans and potatoes adds texture and depth, creating a satisfying bite. Every forkful should evoke the balance of creamy, nutty, and herbal notes, enveloped in the silky embrace of high-quality olive oil.