Garlic scape pesto is a flavorful and versatile condiment that transforms the often overlooked flower stalks of garlic plants into a delicious spread. This unique pesto combines the spicy, garlicky taste of scapes with nuts, cheese, and oil to create a vibrant green sauce perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and more.
Unlike traditional basil pesto, garlic scape pesto offers a bolder, more pungent flavor profile. Chefs and home cooks alike appreciate its ability to add depth to a variety of dishes. The seasonal nature of garlic scapes, typically available in late spring and early summer, makes this pesto a sought-after treat.
Preparing garlic scape pesto is straightforward and allows for customization. Common recipes call for blending garlic scapes with nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds, hard cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Some variations incorporate basil or other herbs to enhance the color and complexity of flavors.
Understanding Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are the curly flower stalks that emerge from hardneck garlic plants. These tender, edible shoots offer a milder garlic flavor and can be used in various culinary applications.
Growing Garlic and Scapes
Hardneck garlic varieties produce scapes in late spring or early summer. Farmers and gardeners typically remove these stalks to encourage bulb growth. The process of cutting scapes, known as “scaping,” allows the plant to focus its energy on developing larger garlic bulbs.
Garlic is usually planted in fall and harvested the following summer. As the plants mature, scapes emerge, curling upwards in a spiral shape. These shoots are best harvested when they’ve made a full loop or two, but before they straighten out and become tough.
Seasonal Availability
Garlic scapes are a fleeting spring delicacy, typically available for just a few weeks each year. They often appear at farmer’s markets and specialty grocery stores in late spring to early summer, depending on the local climate.
The short availability window makes scapes a prized seasonal produce item. Many garlic enthusiasts eagerly await their arrival to enjoy their unique flavor and texture.
Nutritional Value
Garlic scapes offer a range of nutritional benefits. They are low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals. A 100-gram serving of garlic scapes contains:
- Dietary fiber: 2.1 grams
- Vitamin C: 12% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Calcium: 3% of the DV
- Iron: 2% of the DV
- Potassium: 3% of the DV
Scapes also contain antioxidants and sulfur compounds similar to those found in garlic bulbs, which may provide various health benefits. These compounds contribute to the scapes’ distinct flavor and aroma.
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Scape Pesto
Garlic scape pesto requires a blend of key components to create its distinctive flavor and texture. The essential ingredients combine to produce a vibrant, aromatic spread that captures the essence of this seasonal delicacy.
Oils and Cheeses
Extra virgin olive oil forms the base of garlic scape pesto, providing a smooth consistency and rich flavor. Use high-quality oil for the best results. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami depth to the pesto. Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is ideal for its superior taste and texture.
For a vegan alternative, nutritional yeast can replace cheese. Some recipes incorporate lemon juice to brighten the flavors and balance the garlic’s intensity.
Herbs and Nuts
Garlic scapes are the star ingredient, offering a milder garlic flavor than cloves. Trim the tough ends and chop them into manageable pieces before processing.
Fresh basil leaves complement the scapes, adding a classic pesto flavor and vibrant green color. For variety, substitute some basil with other herbs like parsley or mint.
Nuts provide texture and richness. Pine nuts are traditional, but walnuts, pistachios, or cashews work well too. Toast the nuts lightly to enhance their flavor.
Additional Seasonings
Salt is crucial for bringing out the pesto’s flavors. Kosher salt or sea salt are good choices. Add it gradually and taste as you go.
Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Some recipes include a garlic clove for extra punch, but this is optional as the scapes already provide garlic flavor.
For heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for additional depth.
How to Make Garlic Scape Pesto
Creating garlic scape pesto is simple and rewarding. The process involves preparing the ingredients, blending them together, and adjusting the flavors to your liking.
Preparation Techniques
Start by washing and drying the garlic scapes. Trim off any tough ends and cut the scapes into 1-inch pieces. This makes them easier to process. Gather other ingredients like nuts (walnuts or sunflower seeds work well), olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and basil leaves. Measure out the ingredients according to your recipe. A typical ratio is 1 cup of chopped scapes to 1/4 cup nuts, 1/2 cup oil, and 1/4 cup cheese. Add a handful of basil leaves for extra flavor and color.
Using a Food Processor or Blender
A food processor is ideal for making pesto, but a blender can also work. Add the chopped scapes, nuts, and cheese to the processor bowl. Pulse a few times to chop the ingredients. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feed tube. Process until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. If using a blender, you may need to stop and stir occasionally to ensure even blending.
Consistency and Flavor Balancing
The ideal consistency for garlic scape pesto is smooth but with some texture remaining. Add more oil if the pesto is too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper can enhance flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the taste and helps preserve the pesto’s green color. For a milder garlic flavor, blanch the scapes briefly before processing. To intensify the garlic taste, add a clove of fresh garlic. Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator, with a thin layer of oil on top to prevent oxidation.
Serving Suggestions and Uses
Garlic scape pesto offers versatile applications in the kitchen. Its bold flavor enhances various dishes, from classic pasta preparations to innovative culinary creations.
Classic Pesto Pasta
Toss garlic scape pesto with hot pasta for a quick and flavorful meal. Cook your favorite pasta shape al dente, then mix in 2-3 tablespoons of pesto per serving. Add a splash of pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles evenly. For extra richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or orecchiette work well with pesto, as their nooks and crannies capture the sauce effectively. For a lighter option, use whole wheat or legume-based pasta.
To elevate the dish, add roasted cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or sautéed shrimp. A handful of toasted pine nuts provides a pleasant crunch and complements the pesto’s nutty flavors.
Innovative Serving Ideas
Spread garlic scape pesto on sourdough pizza for a unique twist on traditional pizza sauce. Top with mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and fresh basil for a delicious vegetarian option.
Use the pesto as a sandwich spread to add zest to your lunch. It pairs well with turkey, mozzarella, and sliced tomatoes on crusty bread or in a wrap.
Mix a spoonful of pesto into mayonnaise for a flavorful aioli. This works great as a dip for roasted vegetables or as a condiment for burgers and sandwiches.
Try stirring garlic scape pesto into scrambled eggs or folding it into an omelet for a savory breakfast. It also makes an excellent addition to mashed potatoes or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Accompaniments and Pairings
Garlic scape pesto complements a variety of proteins. Brush it onto grilled meats like chicken, pork, or fish before serving for an instant flavor boost.
Serve the pesto as a dip with a selection of raw vegetables or breadsticks. It’s a great addition to an antipasto platter alongside olives, cheeses, and cured meats.
For a light appetizer, spread pesto on crostini and top with a slice of fresh mozzarella and a cherry tomato half. This makes an easy and elegant hors d’oeuvre for gatherings.
Pair dishes featuring garlic scape pesto with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Their acidity balances the pesto’s rich flavors well.
Storing Homemade Pesto
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flavor and quality of homemade garlic scape pesto. The key is to protect it from air exposure and keep it at the right temperature.
Short-Term Storage
For short-term use, store garlic scape pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well. To prevent discoloration, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top of the pesto before sealing.
Refrigerated pesto typically lasts 5-7 days. Always use clean utensils when scooping out portions to avoid introducing bacteria. Label the container with the date to track freshness.
Long-Term Freezing Options
Freezing extends the shelf life of garlic scape pesto for up to 6 months. Portion the pesto into ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers before freezing. This allows for easy thawing of single servings.
Once frozen solid, transfer pesto cubes to a freezer bag. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. For larger portions, freeze pesto in small jars or containers, leaving headspace for expansion.
Thaw frozen pesto in the refrigerator overnight. Stir well before using, as some separation may occur during freezing.
Garlic Scape Pesto Variations
Garlic scape pesto offers a versatile base for culinary creativity. Experimentation with different ingredients can yield unique flavors and textures, catering to various dietary preferences and taste profiles.
Alternative Nuts and Seeds
Traditional pesto often uses pine nuts, but garlic scape pesto welcomes diverse nut and seed options. Walnuts provide a rich, earthy flavor and omega-3 fatty acids. Almonds offer a milder taste and additional vitamin E. Sunflower seeds create a budget-friendly alternative with a subtle, nutty flavor.
Pumpkin seeds add a unique green hue and boost zinc content. Pistachios contribute a distinctive flavor and vivid color. For those with nut allergies, hemp seeds offer a safe, protein-rich option.
Each alternative imparts its own texture and nutritional profile to the pesto. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to personalized garlic scape pesto recipes.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Garlic scape pesto easily adapts to vegan and vegetarian diets. Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version rich in B-vitamins. This substitution maintains a cheesy flavor while adding nutrients.
Blend in soft tofu for a creamy texture without dairy. This option increases protein content. Cashew cream serves as another vegan alternative, offering richness and healthy fats.
For added umami, incorporate miso paste. This fermented ingredient enhances flavor depth. Experiment with different herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley to complement the garlic scapes.
Creative Add-Ins
Elevate garlic scape pesto with unexpected ingredients. Roasted red peppers add sweetness and vibrant color. Sun-dried tomatoes introduce tanginess and intensify flavors.
Incorporate leafy greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients and a deeper green hue. Broccoli florets, steamed and blended in, boost fiber content and create a unique texture.
Lemon zest brightens the pesto with citrusy notes. Crushed red pepper flakes introduce a spicy kick. Roasted garlic cloves amplify the garlic flavor for true enthusiasts.
Consider adding fresh herbs like mint or tarragon for aromatic complexity. These creative additions transform basic garlic scape pesto into personalized culinary creations.
