Ep 5. Hey Pesto

James May: Our Man in Italy is a travel documentary series that showcases the beauty, culture, and cuisine of Italy. In season 1 episode 5, titled "Hey Pesto," James May continues his journey across the Italian countryside in his old Fiat 124 Spider. This time, he heads to Liguria, a picturesque region located on the northwest coast of Italy known for its stunning coastline, colorful villages, and delicious pesto.

The episode starts with May driving his vintage convertible along winding roads that offer fantastic views of the Ligurian Sea. He visits the ancient town of Ventimiglia that lies on the Italian-French border. There, he explores the town's well-preserved medieval buildings and fortresses, including the stunning 12th-century cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

Next, May embarks on a culinary adventure to learn all about the pesto that Liguria is famous for. He heads to a local farm where he meets the owners - Nonna Maria and her family - who have been growing and harvesting basil for generations. Nonna Maria teaches May about the traditional way of making pesto, using a mortar and pestle, and reveals her secret ingredient that makes her pesto stand out from the rest.

May also visits the historic city of Genoa, the birthplace of pesto. He meets a local chef who takes him on a tour of the city's vibrant food markets and teaches him how to make a unique version of the classic pesto recipe using toasted hazelnuts. The two men bond over their shared love of food and talk about the importance of preserving traditional Italian cuisine.

Aside from his food adventures, May also visits the magnificent Portofino, a small fishing village known for its colorful houses, high-end boutiques, and luxurious yachts. He strolls around the picturesque Piazzetta and climbs up to the church of San Giorgio to take in the breathtaking view of the harbor.

In the final part of the episode, May heads to the hilltop town of Dolceacqua, where he meets with a local artist who shows him around his studio and explains the inspiration behind his stunning paintings of the Ligurian landscape. May is captivated by the beauty of the town and its surroundings and marvels at how the light changes throughout the day, bringing new shades of green, blue, and gold to the lush fields and steep hills.

Overall, "Hey Pesto" is a delightful episode that showcases the best of Liguria - from its stunning natural scenery to its rich gastronomic heritage. May's enthusiasm and curious nature make him a perfect guide as he immerses himself in the local culture and traditions and discovers the hidden gems of this enchanting region.