This easy garlic scape pesto packs a punch of fresh flavor! Made with garlic scapes, olive oil, nuts, and cheese, it’s perfect for pasta or spreading on bread.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just blend everything, and you’ve got a tasty treat that brightens up any dish. Plus, it makes me feel like a chef without the fuss! 🍝
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic Scapes: These are young garlic shoots, offering a milder flavor than garlic cloves. If you can’t find them, try using a mix of garlic cloves and green onions for some flavor depth.
Fresh Basil: This is optional, but it adds a lovely herb taste. If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can work, but adjust the amount to a teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Nuts: Pine nuts are traditional, but walnuts or almonds can give a unique twist. If you have nut allergies, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds are excellent alternatives.
How Do I Make the Pesto Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth, creamy pesto lies in the blending technique. Start with the garlic scapes and nuts first; this helps them break down enough before you add the olive oil. Here’s how:
- Rinse your ingredients and chop them roughly to help the food processor do its job.
- Combine the chopped garlic scapes, nuts, and cheese in your food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
- While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This will emulsify the oil and other ingredients, creating a creamy texture.
- For a balanced flavor, add lemon juice, salt, and pepper last and pulse to mix.
If your pesto is still thick, just add a little more olive oil to achieve your desired consistency!
Easy Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe for Fresh Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup garlic scapes, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (optional for extra herbiness)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds work well)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy garlic scape pesto can be prepared in about 10 minutes! There’s no cooking involved, just mixing and blending—perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by rinsing the garlic scapes and basil leaves (if you’re using them). Then, chop them roughly into smaller pieces, so they blend more easily.
2. Blend the Base:
In a food processor or blender, add the chopped garlic scapes, basil, nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse the mixture until it’s finely chopped. You want it to be well combined but not too mushy at this stage!
3. Add the Olive Oil:
While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Keep blending until the pesto becomes smooth and all the ingredients are beautifully mixed together.
4. Season to Perfection:
Now it’s time to add the finishing touches! Squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Pulse the mixture a few times just to combine everything well.
5. Adjust Consistency:
Taste your pesto! If you find it’s thicker than you’d like, add a little more olive oil to achieve your preferred consistency. Blend again briefly to mix.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your garlic scape pesto is ready! Toss it with freshly cooked pasta, spread it on toasted bread, or use it as a topping for grilled vegetables or meats. The fresh flavor is sure to impress!
7. Store Any Leftovers:
If you have any pesto left (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Regular Garlic Instead of Garlic Scapes?
Yes! Regular garlic can work in a pinch. Use 1 or 2 cloves for a milder flavor, or more if you want that classic garlic punch. Just be sure to blend it well with the other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftover Pesto?
Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To help prevent discoloration, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container.
Can I Freeze Garlic Scape Pesto?
Absolutely! Garlic scape pesto freezes wonderfully. Transfer it into ice cube trays for easy portioning, freeze until solid, then store the cubes in a freezer bag. They’ll last up to six months.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute that gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You could also use cashew cream for a creamy texture!
