Technique
What is Pesto?
Pronounced /PESS-toh/
Definition
Pesto is an uncooked sauce, best known in the Genoese style of basil, pine nuts, garlic, hard cheese and olive oil.
The word comes from pounding; many regional pestos use other herbs or nuts.
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Related terms
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How to Cook Italian Sausage
Oven, air fryer or skillet — all three, done right.
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Sweet vs. Hot Italian Sausage
Fennel or chili — what actually separates the two, and when to use each.
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Betty & Beth
A crowded bar, two stools, and the kind of night that starts with a clink. Larry toasts a friend over neon and old oak while the rest of the room fades to background noise — proving the best adventures sometimes come in a coupe glass.
Quick answer
What are appetizers called in Italy?
Antipasti — singular antipasto. The word comes from “anti” (before) and “pasto” (meal), so it means “before the meal,” not “before the pasta.” It is the first course of a traditional multi-course Italian meal, followed by primo, secondo with contorno, and dolce.