Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe are one of those delightful ingredients that can truly elevate your cooking. When I first stumbled upon garlic scapes at my local farmer’s market, I was intrigued. These curly green shoots are the flower stalks of garlic plants, and they have a mild garlic flavor that is simply irresistible. Today, I want to share my favorite Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe, which has become a staple in my kitchen.
What Are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the green shoots that grow from garlic bulbs. They appear in late spring and early summer, just before the garlic flowers bloom. Their flavor is milder than garlic cloves, making them perfect for various dishes. They are tender and can be used in salads, stir-fries, and, of course, pesto.
Why Make Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe?
I love making garlic scape pesto because it’s fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. Unlike traditional basil pesto, garlic scape pesto has a unique taste that pairs well with pasta, grilled meats, and even as a spread on sandwiches. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those scapes before they go out of season.
Ingredients for Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious garlic scape pesto:
- 1 cup garlic scapes, chopped
- 1/2 cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds work well)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Garlic Scape Pesto
Making garlic scape pesto is super easy and takes just a few minutes. Here’s how I do it:
- Prep the Scapes: Start by washing the garlic scapes thoroughly. Chop them into smaller pieces for easier blending.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chopped garlic scapes, nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
- Add Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This helps to emulsify the pesto and gives it a creamy texture.
- Season: Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Give it another quick blend to combine everything.
- Taste and Adjust: I always taste my pesto at this stage. If you want more garlic flavor, add a bit more scape. If you like it nuttier, toss in a few more nuts.
Storage Tips for Garlic Scape Pesto
I often make a big batch of garlic scape pesto and store it for later use. Here’s how I do it:
- Refrigerate: Store the pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to pour a thin layer of olive oil on top to keep it fresh.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the pesto in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag. This way, you can pop out a cube whenever you need a quick flavor boost.
Ways to Use Garlic Scape Pesto
Garlic scape pesto is versatile, and I love using it in various dishes. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Pasta: Toss it with cooked pasta for a quick and delicious meal. It works well with both hot and cold pasta dishes.
- Pizza: Spread it on pizza dough instead of traditional tomato sauce for a unique twist.
- Sandwiches: Use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for an extra kick of flavor.
- Grilled Vegetables: Drizzle it over grilled vegetables for a fresh and tasty side dish.
- Dips: Serve it as a dip with crackers or fresh veggies for a healthy snack.
Nutritional Benefits of Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are not just tasty; they also pack a nutritional punch. They are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. Here are some benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Garlic scapes contain antioxidants that help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Boost Immune System: The mild garlic flavor comes with immune-boosting properties, making them great for your health.
- Good Source of Fiber: They also provide dietary fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system.
Substitutions
If you can’t find garlic scapes, don’t worry! You can still make a delicious pesto. Here are some substitutions:
- Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for a classic pesto flavor.
- Spinach: Spinach can add a mild flavor and vibrant color.
- Other Nuts: Feel free to use any nuts you have on hand. Cashews or pecans can add a different twist.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Why Garlic Scape Pesto is Perfect for Summer
Summer is the perfect time for fresh ingredients, and garlic scapes are in season. I love making this pesto when the weather is warm because it’s light and refreshing. It pairs well with summer vegetables and grilled meats, making it a great addition to any barbecue or picnic.
Enjoying Your Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe
In my experience, garlic scape pesto is a delightful and unique twist on traditional pesto. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta or using it as a sandwich spread, this garlic scape pesto will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen.
So, next time you see garlic scapes at the market, don’t hesitate to grab a bunch and give this recipe a try. You’ll love the fresh, garlicky goodness it brings to your meals.