This pesto with garlic scapes recipe is a fresh, vibrant twist on the classic. It’s easy, healthy, and packed with garlicky goodness, perfect for your next family meal or picnic. Trust me, once you try this quick dish, you’ll crave it all summer long!
Table of Contents
What is Garlic Scape Pesto?
The Star Ingredient: Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are the flowering stalks of garlic plants. They have a mild, fresh garlic flavor with a hint of sweetness. This unique ingredient adds a delightful twist to traditional pesto, creating a smooth and luxurious sauce without the strong bite of raw garlic cloves.
Flavor Profile and Texture
The flavor of pesto with garlic scapes is fresh and vibrant. You’ll experience a slightly nutty, earthy taste from the pine nuts that complements the buttery richness of the olive oil. The texture is smooth, making it perfect for spreading or drizzling over various dishes. It’s indulgent yet light enough for warm weather meals.
Ingredients for Homemade Garlic Scape Pesto
Core Pesto Components
To create this delicious pesto, gather these essential ingredients:
- 2 cups garlic scapes, chopped into one-inch pieces
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pine nuts (or cashews/sunflower seeds)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
Flavor Enhancers and Optional Additions
Add a pop of color and flavor with fresh basil leaves. While optional, they bring a lovely herbal note to the dish. You can use ½ to 1 cup of fresh basil leaves if desired.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to adjust the recipe for dietary preferences, consider using dairy-free parmesan for a vegan option. You can replace the pine nuts with cashews or raw sunflower seeds without sacrificing taste.
How to Make Garlic Scape Pesto
Preparing the Garlic Scapes
Start by placing your chopped garlic scapes in a food processor. Pulse them until they are finely chopped, releasing their aromatic essence.
Combining and Processing Ingredients
Next, add the finely grated parmesan, your choice of nuts, salt, and the optional basil to the processor. With everything in place, pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Process the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, showcasing its vibrant green color.
Adjusting Seasoning for Perfect Taste
Taste your pesto and feel free to adjust the seasoning. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, while a pinch of salt enhances the garlic scape goodness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability!
Storing and Freezing Garlic Scape Pesto
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your homemade garlic scape pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week!
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you want to keep your pesto for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Pour the pesto into ice cube trays and freeze. Once solid, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy garlic scape pesto for up to one year.
Delicious Ways to Serve Garlic Scape Pesto
Classic Pairings: Pasta and Grains
This pesto is perfect tossed with hot pasta or grains. It clings beautifully to spaghetti, or you can mix it with a hearty grain like quinoa for a nutritious meal.
Beyond Pasta: Sandwiches, Toasts, and Dips
Spread it on sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor or drizzle it over toasted bread for a simple appetizer. You can also use it as a dip for fresh veggies or crackers.
Enhancing Grilled Meats and Salads
Dress up grilled chicken or steak with a dollop of garlic scape pesto. It’s also a delightful addition to salads, enhancing their freshness without overpowering the other ingredients.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for pesto with garlic scapes?
For pesto with garlic scapes, you’ll need garlic scapes, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, salt, and extra virgin olive oil. Fresh basil is optional for added flavor.
How do I make pesto with garlic scapes step by step?
To make pesto, process garlic scapes until finely chopped, then add parmesan, pine nuts, salt, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.
Can I make pesto with garlic scapes ahead of time?
Yes! You can make garlic scape pesto ahead of time. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze it for longer storage.
How should I store leftover pesto with garlic scapes?
Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze it in ice cube trays for up to one year.
Related Recipes to try
- Pesto Chicken Tortellini
- Pesto Chicken
- Brown Butter Gnocchi
- Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Herb Roasted Chicken
- Spring Salmon
Conclusion
This pesto with garlic scapes is a fantastic way to elevate your meals. For more inspiration, check out our Pinterest page for creative serving ideas and other delightful recipes!
Pesto with Garlic Scapes: A Flavorful Delight
Equipment
- food processor
Ingredients
- 2 cups garlic scapes chopped into one-inch pieces
- 1 cup parmesan cheese finely grated
- ½ cup pine nuts cashews or raw sunflower seeds as substitutes
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ to 1 cup fresh basil leaves optional
Instructions
- Process the chopped garlic scapes in a food processor until they are finely chopped.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, nuts, salt, olive oil, and optional basil to the food processor.
- Continue processing the mixture until it reaches a smooth, pesto-like consistency.
- Taste the pesto and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.