Garlic Scape Pesto Ultimate (Print Page)
Aromatic pesto with fresh garlic scapes, ideal for pasta, bread, or veggies.
# What You Need:
→ Fresh Produce
01 - 1 cup garlic scapes, chopped (about 8-10 scapes)
02 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
→ Nuts & Seeds
04 - 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
→ Dairy
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Oils
06 - 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
→ Seasonings
07 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Place garlic scapes, basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped.
02 - While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue processing until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
03 - Taste the pesto and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Transfer the finished sauce to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It brings a fresh, garlicky kick without the harshness of cloves.
- Ready in minutes but tastes like it simmered all day.
02 -
- Over blending can make the pesto bitter, so stop as soon as it comes together.
- Scapes can vary in intensity, so taste test before adding salt.
03 -
- Toast the nuts before blending for a deeper flavor.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.