This Easy Garlic Scape Pesto is full of fresh flavors and ready in minutes! It uses garlic scapes, which are the curly green tops of garlic plants, making it extra special.
The best part? You can spread it on bread, toss it with pasta, or even drizzle it on veggies! 😋 I love how quick it is to whip up—just blend everything together and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic Scapes: The star of this pesto! They have a milder garlic flavor. If you can’t find them, fresh garlic will work, but use less for a more subtle taste.
Nuts: I suggest pine nuts for their creamy texture, but walnuts or almonds make great substitutes if you’re looking for something different or cheaper!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor! If you’re vegan, try a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. You can use a different oil like avocado oil, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Lemon Juice: Fresh juice brightens the flavor. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled juice will do, but I prefer fresh for the best taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Pesto Consistency?
A smooth consistency is key for delicious pesto! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Chop your garlic scapes into small pieces to help them blend better.
- Add the ingredients in stages. Start with the scapes, nuts, and cheese first—pulse until chopped.
- While blending, drizzle in the olive oil slowly. This aerates the mixture and helps create that silky texture.
- Don’t rush! Taste and adjust the texture. You can add more oil for a thinner pesto or pulse less for a chunkier version!
Storing your pesto in an airtight container and covering it with a thin layer of oil can also help prevent browning. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Garlic Scape Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup garlic scapes, chopped
- 1/3 cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pesto takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for beginners or anyone in a rush. Enjoy your fresh, homemade pesto right after making it, or store it in the fridge for later.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Scapes:
Start by rinsing the garlic scapes under cool water to clean them. Then, chop them into 1-inch pieces; this will help them blend easily in the next steps.
2. Blend the Base:
In a food processor or blender, combine the chopped garlic scapes, your choice of nuts, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse everything together until the mixture is coarsely chopped. This gives your pesto a nice texture.
3. Achieve the Perfect Consistency:
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Keep blending until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Don’t rush this step—the oil helps everything come together!
4. Add Flavor and Season:
Next, incorporate the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Pulse briefly again to combine everything well. Tasting the pesto here is key—feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
5. Serve or Store:
Your delicious garlic scape pesto is ready to enjoy! Use it right away on pasta, spread it on bread, or drizzle it over grilled vegetables. If you’re saving it for later, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
FAQ for Easy Garlic Scape Pesto
Can I Use Regular Garlic Instead of Garlic Scapes?
Yes, you can substitute garlic scapes with regular garlic! Use 1-2 cloves of fresh garlic, depending on your taste preference, but be mindful that the flavor will be more pungent.
How Can I Store Garlic Scape Pesto?
Store your pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To prevent the pesto from browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing it.
Can I Freeze This Pesto for Later Use?
Absolutely! Pesto freezes very well. Just pour it into an ice cube tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can pull out individual portions as needed!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also use a vegan Parmesan or simply skip the cheese altogether for a lighter pesto!
