garlic scape pesto recipe
The Best garlic scape pesto recipe
What I love most about garlic scape pesto isn’t just the taste—it’s how easy it is to make and how much it elevates whatever you pair it with. Whether it’s a simple bowl of spaghetti, a fresh salad, or even a baked potato, that little green zing cuts through the richness and makes everything feel lighter. My family loves it because it’s naturally sweet and earthy, not overpowering like some of those store-bought pastas. The kids especially dig it when they get to pick their own garlic scapes from the garden (if we have any left), and it’s a great way to teach them about what grows in the soil. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients—garlic scapes are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants that help with immunity, and the healthy fats from the nuts or olive oil keep things balanced. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a win-win: good for you, easy for me, and always a hit with the whole crew.
Garlic Scape Pesto with Garlic Bread
A vibrant and flavorful pesto made with fresh garlic scapes, basil, and pine nuts, paired with a simple garlic bread. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 3 garlic scapes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then set aside. -
2
For the garlic bread: Mix minced garlic, softened butter, parsley, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly on both sides of the sliced baguette. -
3
Place the baguette slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. -
4
For the pesto: In a food processor, combine garlic scapes, minced garlic, basil, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. -
5
Serve the garlic bread warm with the garlic scape pesto on top or alongside. -
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🔧Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Parchment paper
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- Ensure garlic scapes are fresh and finely chopped for the best flavor.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the pesto.
- Store pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Substitutions
- Use walnuts instead of pine nuts if preferred.
- Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a different cheesy flavor.
Watch Video Of How Garlic Scape Pesto with Garlic Bread Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Scape Pesto with Garlic Bread
1. What exactly are garlic scapes, and how do they differ from regular garlic bulbs?
Garlic scapes are the curly, green stems that grow above garlic plants (like hardneck garlic varieties) instead of forming bulbs. Unlike regular garlic bulbs, which are used for flavor in cooking, garlic scapes are the young shoots that can be harvested and used fresh or cooked. They’re rich in flavor, slightly sweet, and have a milder garlic taste compared to bulb garlic.
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2. Can I use any type of garlic scapes in the pesto recipe, or do I need to pick them at a specific time?
You can use garlic scapes from any hardneck garlic variety, but the best time to harvest them is when they’re about 6–10 inches long and still tender. If they’re too mature or woody, they’ll have a stronger, less pleasant flavor. Pick them early in the morning when they’re fresh and crisp.
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3. Why should I include garlic scapes in pesto instead of just using basil and pine nuts?
Garlic scapes add a unique, slightly sweet and herby depth to pesto that basil alone can’t replicate. Their mild garlic flavor complements the richness of nuts, cheese, and olive oil, creating a balanced, aromatic sauce. They also add a vibrant green color and a fresh, almost citrusy note that makes pesto more complex and interesting.
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4. Do I need to peel garlic scapes before making pesto, and if so, how do I do it?
You don’t need to peel garlic scapes before making pesto, but you can if you prefer. Simply trim off the ends and remove any tough outer layers by gently scrubbing or peeling with your fingers or a knife. The inner stems are tender and flavorful, so leaving them whole is fine unless you’re dealing with very mature scapes.
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5. What’s the best way to store garlic scape pesto to keep it fresh for longer?
To store garlic scape pesto, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of making it. It’ll last about 5–7 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it in ice cube trays (with olive oil) or small portions in a freezer-safe bag, where it can keep for 3–6 months. Always let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before using to revive flavors.
