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Fresh Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe with Toasted Pine Nuts and Parmesan Made Easy

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A quick and easy pesto made from fresh garlic scapes, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This vibrant sauce offers a fresh, garlicky flavor perfect for pasta, grilled meats, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh garlic scapes, chopped
  • 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 small clove garlic for extra punch
  • Optional: A handful of fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown and aromatic. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Rinse and trim the ends of the garlic scapes, then roughly chop into 1-inch pieces.
  3. In a food processor, combine chopped garlic scapes, cooled toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pulse a few times to break down the ingredients. While the processor runs, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Process until smooth but still slightly textured, about 30-45 seconds. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or pepper if desired. If too thick, add more olive oil or a splash of water to loosen.
  6. Use immediately or transfer to a glass jar, cover with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning, and refrigerate up to 5 days.

Notes

Toast pine nuts carefully to avoid burning. Pulse the mixture to keep some texture rather than pureeing. Blanch tougher garlic scapes for 30 seconds in boiling water to soften if needed. Store pesto with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. For a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or ricotta.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic scape pesto, pesto recipe, garlic scapes, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan pesto, easy pesto, fresh pesto, spring recipe

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/fresh-garlic-scape-pesto-recipe-with-toasted-pine-nuts-and-parmesan-made-easy/