Garlic Scape Pesto

Garlic scape pesto is a vibrant and flavorful sauce that can elevate any dish. This unique twist on traditional pesto features garlic scapes, which are the flower stems of garlic plants. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, this garlic scape pesto is versatile enough to pair with pasta, roasted veggies, or grilled meats. With its fresh taste and easy preparation, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy all season long.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Scape Pesto

This garlic scape pesto is more than just delicious; it’s also packed with benefits.

• Quick Preparation: With minimal cooking time, you can whip up this pesto in about 10 minutes.
• Fresh Flavor: The unique taste of garlic scapes offers a mild yet aromatic flavor that stands out.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip for veggies; the possibilities are endless!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and healthy fats from olive oil and pistachios, this pesto is nutritious and satisfying.
• Seasonal Delight: Use fresh garlic scapes when they are in season for the best flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your garlic scape pesto, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Grater
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes blending ingredients effortless and ensures a smooth texture for your pesto.
• Grater: A grater allows you to finely zest the lemon and grate the Parmesan cheese quickly.
• Knife & cutting board: Essential for chopping your garlic scapes and preparing other ingredients safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

Pair this easy and flavorful garlic scape pesto with everything, from pasta to roasted vegetables and grilled meat.

For the Pesto

• 5 garlic scapes
• 1 medium lemon
• 1/2 ounce Parmesan cheese (about 1/4 cup grated)
• 1/4 cup raw or roasted, salted, shelled pistachios
• 1 packed cup baby spinach (1 1/2 ounces)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Pin

How to Make Garlic Scape Pesto

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by trimming the ends from 5 garlic scapes and coarsely chop them. Next, finely grate the zest of 1 medium lemon until you gather about 1 teaspoon. Finally, juice the lemon until you have around 2 tablespoons of juice.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

In a food processor fitted with a blade attachment, combine the chopped garlic scapes, 1/4 cup pistachios, and 1 packed cup of baby spinach. Process these ingredients until they are finely chopped, which should take about 15 seconds.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Then add in the lemon juice and zest you previously prepared along with the grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Process again until you have formed a uniform paste—this should take another 15 seconds.

Step 4: Emulsify with Olive Oil

With the motor running on your food processor, slowly stream in 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. Be sure to scrape down the sides again as needed. Continue blending until all the oil is fully emulsified into a smooth mixture; this should only take about 5 seconds.

Now your delicious garlic scape pesto is ready! Enjoy it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later use.

How to Serve Garlic Scape Pesto

Garlic scape pesto is a versatile sauce that elevates any dish with its fresh and vibrant flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious pesto.

Pasta

• Toss your favorite pasta with garlic scape pesto for a quick and flavorful meal. The creamy texture clings beautifully to noodles.

Grilled Vegetables

• Drizzle garlic scape pesto over grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a burst of flavor that enhances their natural sweetness.

Pizza

• Spread garlic scape pesto as a base on pizza instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top with fresh mozzarella and veggies for a unique twist.

Sandwich Spread

• Use garlic scape pesto as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. It adds depth and richness that pairs well with meats or roasted veggies.

Salad Dressing

• Mix garlic scape pesto with a bit of vinegar for an easy salad dressing. It will add a zesty kick to mixed greens or grain salads.

Marinade for Meats

• Marinate chicken, fish, or tofu in garlic scape pesto before grilling or roasting. The flavors penetrate the protein, creating a succulent dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Scape Pesto

To ensure your garlic scape pesto turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic scapes and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor in your pesto.
• Adjust Texture: If the pesto is too thick, add more olive oil gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Storage Tips: Store leftover garlic scape pesto in an airtight container. Cover the top with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try different nuts like walnuts or almonds for variety in flavor and texture.
• Add More Greens: For an even healthier version, mix in other greens like arugula or kale along with the baby spinach.
• Zest it Up: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese and nuts.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Scape Pesto

When looking for side dishes that complement garlic scape pesto, consider these tasty options. They pair wonderfully and enhance your meal experience.

1. Roasted Potatoes
   Crisp roasted potatoes are delightful when drizzled with garlic scape pesto, adding an herbaceous note to this comforting side.
2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad tossed with garlic scape pesto brings together wholesome grains and vibrant flavors, perfect for a healthy complement.
3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil topped with garlic scape pesto create a refreshing Caprese salad that’s perfect for summer meals.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Brush grilled corn on the cob with garlic scape pesto instead of butter for a flavorful twist on this classic summer side.
5. Zucchini Noodles
   Spiralized zucchini tossed in garlic scape pesto makes for a low-carb alternative to pasta while still being satisfying and delicious.
6. Stuffed Peppers
   Add dollops of garlic scape pesto to stuffed peppers before baking for an extra kick of flavor that enhances every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Scape Pesto is simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your pesto is a hit.

• Using old garlic scapes: Freshness matters! Always choose bright green, firm garlic scapes for the best flavor.
• Over-processing the ingredients: If you blend too much, your pesto can become too smooth. Aim for a slightly chunky texture by pulsing instead of continuous blending.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skip the salt! It enhances all the flavors in your Garlic Scape Pesto. Start with half a teaspoon and adjust as needed.
• Not balancing acidity: Lemon juice adds freshness. A lack of acidity can make the pesto taste flat. Be sure to include both zest and juice.
• Disregarding oil quality: The olive oil you use affects the taste significantly. Opt for high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Garlic Scape Pesto in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• You can freeze Garlic Scape Pesto in ice cube trays.
• Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to three months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pesto in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm, about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated, about 5 minutes.

Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Scape Pesto and its uses.

How long does homemade Garlic Scape Pesto last?

Homemade Garlic Scape Pesto lasts about one week in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze Garlic Scape Pesto?

Yes! Freezing it in ice cube trays is a great way to preserve it for up to three months.

What can I serve with Garlic Scape Pesto?

This versatile sauce pairs well with pasta, grilled vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches.

Is Garlic Scape Pesto vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by omitting Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based substitute.

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with walnuts or almonds if you prefer different flavors.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Scape Pesto is an easy and flavorful addition to any meal. Its versatility allows it to enhance everything from pasta dishes to grilled meats. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or herbs for a unique twist!