Garlic Scape Pesto With Benefits (Printable)
Aromatic pesto with fresh garlic scapes.
# 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 as an alternative)
→ 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
# How-To:
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 blending until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
03 - Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning if necessary. Transfer the mixture to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It brings a bright, herbaceous punch to anything it touches without overpowering the dish.
- The texture is luxuriously smooth and incredibly versatile for last minute meals.
02 -
- Over blending the nuts can make the pesto bitter, so watch the texture closely.
- This sauce oxidizes quickly, so pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface keeps it green.
03 -
- Toast the pine nuts lightly beforehand to bring out their natural oils.
- Let the pesto sit for ten minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.