Why Trofie al Pesto is the Pasta You Need This Summer

A Taste of Liguria
Trofie al Pesto and the Perfect Citrus Cocktail Pairing

At Oliver’s Italian, we love bringing regional Italian flavors to life — and this month, we’re highlighting one of Liguria’s most iconic pasta dishes: Trofie al Pesto. Paired with our house-crafted Limonata cocktail, this duo captures the spirit of coastal Italy with every bite and sip.

A Brief History of Trofie Pasta

Trofie is a hand-rolled pasta that hails from the Ligurian region of Northern Italy, especially the area around Genoa. Traditionally made at home, trofie was shaped by rubbing small pieces of dough between the palms to form its signature twisted, spiral shape — ideal for catching every bit of pesto.

This pasta has humble roots, made from just flour and water, but its texture and ability to cling to sauce has made it a staple in Ligurian cuisine. It’s most famously paired with pesto alla Genovese, a fragrant green sauce made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano Reggiano, and olive oil — ingredients that reflect the bounty of the region.

Trofie al Pesto at Oliver’s Italian

At Oliver’s, we give the dish a twist with a dollop of whipped ricotta, roasted tomatoes for a touch of sweetness, and a toasted pistachio crumb for texture and depth. It’s our way of celebrating tradition while bringing a bit of modern flavor to the plate.

Cocktail Pairing: Why We Love the Limonata

Instead of going with a traditional white wine pairing, we recommend trying this dish with our zesty Limonata cocktail. Featuring Malfy Citrus Gin, Limoncello, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling San Pellegrino Limonata, this drink is a chilled burst of citrus that complements the earthy richness of basil and ricotta.

Oliver’s Italian Limonata Gin Cocktail

The lemon-forward profile of the Limonata cocktail helps cleanse the palate between bites while enhancing the fresh, herbal notes of the pesto. It’s bright, bubbly, and just the right amount of Italian flair.

The Summer Pairing You Didn’t Know You Needed

Perfect for patio nights, light dinners, or a weekend treat, the Trofie al Pesto + Limonata combo is a vibrant, seasonal duo that’s only available for a limited time. Come enjoy this delicious pairing with us at Oliver’s — where every dish tells a story, and every cocktail carries you to the coast of Italy.

Reserve your table today or stop in for lunch or dinner this week.