Garlic Scape Pesto: A Bold, Vibrant Sauce

For garlic lovers, Garlic Scape Pesto is a game-changer! This vibrant, herbaceous sauce blends the bold flavor of garlic scapes with fresh basil, toasted nuts, and Parmesan for a rich, versatile condiment. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for pasta, sandwiches, grilled meats, or as a dip. Plus, it freezes beautifully, letting you enjoy summer’s flavors year-round. Naturally gluten-free and packed with seasonal ingredients, this pesto is a must-try for quick, flavorful meals.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Scape Pesto

Garlic scapes, the curly green stems of hardneck garlic, bring a mild garlicky kick with subtle onion and scallion notes. Combined with bright lemon, nutty toasted nuts, and fresh basil, this pesto delivers a balanced, bold flavor. Here’s why it’s a standout:

• Intense yet Balanced: The garlicky edge is softened by basil and lemon for a well-rounded taste.
• Quick and Easy: Takes just minutes to whip up in a food processor.
• Versatile: Use on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip for endless meal options.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch to enjoy summer’s bounty later.
• Healthy and Gluten-Free: Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.

What Are Garlic Scapes?

Garlic scapes are the flowering stems of hardneck garlic plants, available at farmers’ markets in late spring to early summer. Their mild garlic flavor with hints of scallion makes them perfect for pesto, adding a unique twist to the classic basil version.

Ingredients

[Note: The original text did not provide specific quantities. Below is a placeholder list based on standard garlic scape pesto recipes. Please provide exact measurements if available, and I can update this section.]

• Garlic Scapes: 1 cup, trimmed and chopped (about 8–10 scapes).
• Fresh Basil: ½ cup, packed, for a balanced flavor.
• Toasted Nuts: ¼ cup sliced almonds or pine nuts (or walnuts, cashews, pistachios).
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: ½ cup, for a robust, smooth texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (or Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite).
• Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp, for brightness.
• Lemon Zest: 1 tsp, for extra zing.
• Kosher Salt: ½ tsp, to taste.

How to Make Garlic Scape Pesto

1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse garlic scapes under cold water, remove the flower bud, and trim any woody ends. Chop into 1-inch pieces. Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until golden.
2. Blend Base: In a food processor, combine garlic scapes, basil, toasted nuts, and salt. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Add Oil and Lemon: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Add lemon juice and zest, blending until smooth.
4. Incorporate Cheese: Transfer mixture to a bowl and stir in grated Parmesan. Adjust texture with more olive oil if needed.
5. Serve or Store: Use immediately or store as per instructions below.

Pro Tips for Success

• Taste Scapes First: If scapes are too pungent, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then cool in ice water before blending.
• Customize Nuts: Try walnuts, pistachios, or cashews for a unique flavor profile.
• Adjust to Taste: Add more lemon juice, cheese, or oil to mellow strong garlic flavors.
• Smooth Texture: Blend thoroughly for a creamy pesto, or pulse less for a chunkier consistency.

Storage and Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 7–10 days. Top with a thin layer of olive oil to preserve freshness.
• Freezer: Spoon into ice cube trays and freeze. Transfer cubes to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Scape Pesto is incredibly versatile. Try these ideas:

• Pasta: Toss with hot pasta for a quick, flavorful meal.
• Sandwiches: Spread on grilled paninis or wraps.
• Compound Butter: Mix with softened butter for slow-baked salmon or steak.
• Dip: Stir into mayo or Greek yogurt for a garlicky dip.
• Sauce: Drizzle over roasted vegetables, seafood, or grilled meats.
• Grain Bowls: Swirl into risottos or quinoa bowls for a flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I find garlic scapes?
Look for them at farmers’ markets or specialty grocery stores in late spring to early summer.

Can I use frozen garlic scapes?
Yes, thaw them first, but fresh scapes yield the best flavor.

Can I make this nut-free?
Yes, substitute nuts with sunflower seeds or omit for a nut-free version.

Is this pesto vegan-friendly?
Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

How do I clean garlic scapes?
Rinse under cold water, trim off the flower bud and woody ends, and chop into small pieces.

Conclusion

Garlic Scape Pesto is a bold, vibrant twist on classic pesto, perfect for garlic lovers. Quick to make, versatile, and freezer-friendly, it’s a fantastic way to savor summer’s garlic scapes year-round. Toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a dip—whatever you choose, this pesto will elevate your dishes with its fresh, garlicky flavor!