Today, Basil (Pra's Basil for the original ''pesto alla Genovese''), Garlic , Salt , Pine Nut s, Olive Oil , and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese are the main conventional ingredients. The sauce did not originally contain basil, however. Instead, cheese and olive oil were the main constituents. It is commonly used on Bread s and Pasta , though its use is not restricted to these; the sauce is highly versatile. In commercial pesto, Cashew Nuts or Walnuts are often used instead of pine nuts, as they are cheaper and have a similar texture. In addition, the Parmigiano is often replaced by cheaper varieties of cheese, such as Grana Padano , Pecorino Romano , or Parmesan Cheese . Vegan versions are also available where basically the cheese is left out and the pine nuts give the texture.
Pesto, usually sold in small jars, is commonly available in stores in the basic green (original) or red (with sun-dried tomatoes or red bell peppers) varieties, produced by major maufacturers or under the store's 'own-brand'. Other variations with ingredients such as Arugula ("rocket salad"; instead of basil), Black Olives , Lemon Rind , or Coriander also exist. A German variety uses Ramsons leaves instead of basil. In the 19th century, Genovese immigrants to South America brought pesto recipes with them. A Peruvian variety, known as "Tallarin Verde" (Lit. Green Noodles, from Italian tagliarini') is slightly creamier, uses spinach leaves and is served with potatoes and sirloin steak, much to the horror of visiting Italians.
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