Liguria, located on the stunning northwest coast of Italy, is renowned not only for its spectacular landscapes but also for its unique and flavorful cuisine. Ligurian cuisine perfectly reflects the region itself: simple, healthy, and packed with flavor. Inspired by the sea and the surrounding mountains, Liguria offers a variety of dishes you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the most iconic dishes and specialties from this region.

Lasagne al Pesto

Liguria is the birthplace of the famous green pesto, made from basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino, pine nuts, and olive oil. This sauce is often served with pasta, such as trofie or trenette, but one of the most beloved ways to enjoy pesto is in Lasagne al Pesto. The lasagna sheets are layered with a rich pesto sauce and potatoes, creating a flavorful and delicious variation on traditional lasagna.

Pesto alla Genovese

No dish in Liguria is as iconic as Pesto alla Genovese. This green sauce is made from the region’s famous basil, combined with the finest local olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino, and pine nuts. Pesto is typically served with trofie, a short, twisted pasta that perfectly clings to the sauce. This dish is a true symbol of Ligurian gastronomy.

Focaccia di Recco

Focaccia di Recco is a thin, crispy focaccia filled with soft cheese, often stracchino, originating from the town of Recco. This delightful dish is served as a snack or appetizer. Its simple yet delicious flavor makes it a favorite, and it’s often served straight from the oven—crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Acciughe alla Ligure (Ligurian Anchovies)

Being a coastal region, Liguria is famous for its seafood, with anchovies playing a significant role. Acciughe alla Ligure are anchovy fillets marinated in oil, garlic, and herbs. They can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or in salads. Pairing anchovies with other ingredients like vegetables or pasta is a typical way to enjoy this seafood specialty.

Ravioli di Pesce

Liguria is also home to fantastic ravioli, often filled with fresh fish such as cod or salmon and served with a light olive oil and herb-based sauce. Ravioli di Pesce reflects the fresh flavors of the Ligurian Sea and is often paired with vegetables from the region’s mountainous terrain.

Farinata

Farinata is a delicious savory pancake made from chickpea flour, water, oil, and salt. The result is a thin, crispy disk typically served in slices and perfect as a snack or side dish. This specialty is popular throughout Liguria and originates from Genoa. Farinata is often enjoyed at street stalls or in local trattorias, especially with a glass of local wine.

Wines of Liguria

Liguria offers a wide range of excellent wines that complement the rich flavors of its cuisine. The region boasts several white wines, such as Pigato, which pairs beautifully with seafood and light pasta dishes. Additionally, the red wine Rossese di Dolceacqua is a great choice for meat dishes and cheeses. Ligurian wines have an authentic taste shaped by the Mediterranean climate and the proximity to the sea.

The cuisine of Liguria is simple yet full of character. Inspired by both the mountains and the sea, the region offers a diverse palette of flavors that will delight any food lover. From the iconic pesto to delicious seafood dishes and the famous focaccia, a visit to Liguria is incomplete without savoring the local cuisine. Buon appetito!