How to Make Authentic Italian Pesto alla Siciliana

Pesto alla Siciliana, or Sicilian Pesto, is a delicious twist on the traditional Italian pesto. This vibrant sauce showcases the rich flavors of Sicily, combining sun-dried tomatoes, almonds, and fresh basil. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to make authentic Pesto alla Siciliana from scratch.

Ingredients

To prepare an authentic Sicilian pesto, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, preferably packed in olive oil
  • 1/3 cup almonds (or pine nuts for a more traditional touch)
  • 1/2 cup grated Pecorino cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients. Rinse the fresh basil leaves gently under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. If you are using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, make sure to drain them well.

2. Toast the Nuts

If you are using raw almonds, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until golden and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor. Allow them to cool before adding them to the blender.

3. Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, toasted almonds, grated Pecorino cheese, and garlic. Pulse these ingredients together until they form a coarse paste.

4. Add the Olive Oil

While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. This will emulsify the mixture and create a creamy consistency. Stop the processor as soon as the pesto reaches your desired thickness.

5. Season to Taste

Once blended, taste the pesto and season it with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Remember that the Pecorino cheese is already salty, so add the salt sparingly.

Storing Your Pesto

To preserve the vibrant color and flavor of your Pesto alla Siciliana, store it in an airtight container. Pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to help keep it fresh. This pesto can last in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays and then transferring the cubes to a freezer bag for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Pesto alla Siciliana pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a sauce over pasta, spread it on bruschetta, or use it as a condiment for grilled meats and vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and this Sicilian twist on pesto is sure to impress your family and friends!

Enjoy the taste of Sicily with your homemade Pesto alla Siciliana. Buon Appetito!