Are you a fan of Italian cuisine? If so, you’ve probably heard of pesto sauce – a delicious green sauce made with basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. But did you know that there’s a variation of this sauce that includes pine nuts?
This nutty twist on the classic pesto is a popular sauce in Italian cuisine, but what is it called? In this article, we’ll explore the world of pine nut sauce and its various names.
So, grab a fork and get ready to learn about this tasty sauce!
What Is Pine Nut Sauce Called
Pine nut sauce is commonly known as pesto alla genovese or simply pesto. However, the addition of pine nuts to the sauce can also give it a unique name – pesto alla pignoli. Pignoli is the Italian word for pine nuts, so this variation of pesto is essentially “pine nut pesto.”
In some regions of Italy, pine nut sauce is also known as salsa di noci, which translates to “walnut sauce.” This name can be confusing, as the sauce does not actually contain walnuts. However, it is believed that the name may have originated from a time when pine nuts were scarce and walnuts were used as a substitute.
What Is Pine Nut Sauce?
Pine nut sauce is a savory sauce that is made primarily from pine nuts. It is commonly used as a garnish on meat and seafood dishes, but it can also be used as a sauce for pasta or as a salad dressing. The sauce typically contains crushed basil leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, in addition to the pine nuts.
Making pine nut sauce is relatively easy and can be done in a mortar and pestle or mini food processor. To make the sauce, the pine nuts are toasted in a skillet until they are fragrant and golden. They are then crushed or blended with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt until a paste forms. The sauce can be used immediately or stored in a glass jar in the fridge for up to a week.
Pine nut sauce can also be incorporated into other recipes, such as cauliflower Alfredo sauce or as a topping for skillet charred cherry tomatoes. It adds a rich, nutty flavor to any dish and is a great way to elevate simple ingredients. Overall, pine nut sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to any cook’s repertoire.
The History Of Pine Nut Sauce In Italian Cuisine
Pine nut sauce has a long and rich history in Italian cuisine. The use of pine nuts in cooking can be traced back to ancient Rome, where they were a popular ingredient in many dishes. In fact, the Romans prepared a paste made with cheese, pine nuts, oil, salt, and aromatic herbs, which was called “moretum.”
During the Middle Ages, a sauce called agliata became popular in plebeian cooking. This sauce was made from a paste of walnuts and garlic. Garlic was especially popular in Genova and Liguria during this time, as it was believed to prevent illness during long periods of sailing. The use of aromatic herbs also became popular during this period, as they were a cheaper alternative to spices which were reserved for the upper classes.
The modern version of pine nut sauce that we know today is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century when Giovanni Battista Ratto published the recipe for Pesto alla Genovese in his book “La Cucina Genovese.” To prepare an authentic Pesto alla Genovese, a marble mortar and pestle are required. The traditional ingredients include Genovese DOP basil, extra virgin olive oil Riviera Ligure DOP, garlic Vassalico of Imperia province, pine nuts, parmesan, and coarse salt.
Pine nut sauce has become a staple in Italian cuisine and is used not only as a pasta sauce but also as a dressing for fish, meats, vegetables, soups, and bread. The popularity of pesto has also led to variations such as pesto alla calabrese, which consists of roasted bell peppers, garlic, black pepper, basil, cheese, and olive oil. Another variation is Pesto Rosso from Sicily which is red due to the addition of tomatoes and uses just a little basil.
In recent years, pine nuts have become a hot commodity in the United States, as they are a crucial ingredient in frozen pesto, pesto pizza, and pesto pasta salad. While Americans may know pine nuts now, few are aware of their rich history in Italian cuisine and beyond. Pine nuts can be traced back to Biblical times and have been used in the world’s kitchen and pharmacopoeia for centuries.
Regional Variations And Names For Pine Nut Sauce
While pesto alla genovese is the most well-known variation of pine nut sauce, there are many regional variations throughout Italy. In Liguria, the birthplace of pesto, the sauce is traditionally made with Genovese DOP basil, Vassalico garlic from the Imperia province, and Riviera Ligure DOP extra virgin olive oil. However, other regions have their own unique twists on the classic recipe.
In Sicily, for example, pine nut sauce is often made with almonds instead of pine nuts. This variation is known as pesto alla trapanese and is typically served with busiate, a type of curly pasta. In Sardinia, a similar sauce called pistou is made with pecorino cheese instead of parmesan and is often served with malloreddus, small dumpling-like pasta.
In some regions of Italy, pine nut sauce is also used as a topping for pizza. In Naples, for instance, a pizza called pizza alla pignata is topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a generous dollop of pine nut sauce.
Outside of Italy, pine nut sauce can also be found in other Mediterranean cuisines. In Catalonia, for example, romesco sauce is a popular condiment made with almonds and pine nuts. The sauce is typically served with grilled fish or vegetables.
How To Make Pine Nut Sauce At Home
Making pine nut sauce at home is quick and easy. Here is a simple recipe to try:
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1 small garlic clove, chopped
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the pine nuts in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until fragrant and golden.
2. In a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, chopped garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse a few more times to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Your pine nut sauce is now ready to use! Serve it over pasta, as a dip for vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches. The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, simply stir in a little more olive oil before using.
Creative Ways To Use Pine Nut Sauce In Your Cooking
Pine nut sauce, also known as pesto alla genovese or pesto alla pignoli, is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor and texture to your cooking. Here are some creative ways to use pine nut sauce in your cooking:
1. Pasta: The most traditional way to use pine nut sauce is as a pasta sauce. Simply toss your favorite pasta with the sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese for a quick and easy meal.
2. Sandwiches: Spread pine nut sauce on bread or a wrap to add flavor and creaminess to your sandwiches. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or deli meats.
3. Pizza: Use pine nut sauce as a pizza sauce instead of tomato sauce for a unique twist on a classic dish. Top with mozzarella cheese, roasted vegetables, and fresh herbs for a delicious and flavorful pizza.
4. Grilled meats: Use pine nut sauce as a marinade for grilled meats such as chicken or lamb. The nutty flavor of the pine nuts pairs well with the smoky flavor of the grill.
5. Vegetables: Drizzle pine nut sauce over roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or eggplant for an easy and flavorful side dish.
6. Salad dressing: Use pine nut sauce as a salad dressing by thinning it out with a little bit of olive oil and vinegar. It pairs well with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
7. Bruschetta: Spread pine nut sauce on toasted bread and top with chopped tomatoes and fresh basil for a delicious appetizer.
Health Benefits Of Pine Nuts And Pine Nut Sauce
Pine nuts and pine nut sauce have numerous health benefits that make them a great addition to any diet. One of the most notable benefits is their ability to promote heart health. Pine nuts are rich in pinolenic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid that has been shown to lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Additionally, pine nuts have been shown to aid in weight management. They contain a combination of healthy fats, fiber, and protein that can help increase feelings of satiety and decrease the rate of food intake. The pinolenic acid found in pine nuts also makes your brain believe that your stomach is full, helping to curb appetite and reduce overeating.
Pine nuts also contain anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of pinolenic acid. Inflammation can lead to chronic illnesses such as cancer, cognitive decline, and heart disease. Consuming pine nuts and pine nut sauce can help reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health.
Furthermore, pine nuts are a great source of energy due to their high protein content. They can provide long-lasting energy for physical activity and athletic events. Pine nuts are also great for dealing with pressure and stress, as they contain monounsaturated fats that can stimulate brain activity and improve mood.
In summary, incorporating pine nuts and pine nut sauce into your diet can provide numerous health benefits, including promoting heart health, aiding in weight management, reducing inflammation, and providing long-lasting energy. So next time you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful addition to your meal, consider adding some pine nut sauce!
