Garlic Scape Pesto Ultimate (Printable version)
Aromatic pesto with garlic scapes, basil, and pine nuts. Versatile and quick to make.
# 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
# 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 pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the pesto reaches a smooth and 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 Advice:
01 -
- It captures the fleeting taste of early summer in a jar.
- The texture is incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from pasta to a simple sandwich spread.
02 -
- Blending too long can heat up the herbs and turn the pesto brown, so pulse gently and watch the texture.
- Garlic scapes can vary in thickness, so taste one raw before adding to gauge its potency.
03 -
- Toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the processor for a deeper flavor.
- If the pesto is too thick, loosen it with a tablespoon of water or more olive oil.