8+ Chef John's Garlic Scape Pesto Recipes You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
If you're a fan of traditional pesto, then you're in for a treat with Chef John's garlic scape pesto recipes. Garlic scapes, also known as green garlic, are the long, curly shoots that grow from garlic bulbs. They have a milder flavor than garlic cloves and are perfect for making pesto. In this article, we'll explore Chef John's creative and delicious ways of using garlic scapes in pesto recipes.
Main Ingredients: Garlic Scapes, Olive Oil, Grated Parmesan, Roasted
Garlic scape pesto is a delicious and versatile sauce that can elevate any dish. Made from the tender and flavorful green shoots of garlic plants, this pesto is packed with fresh and vibrant flavors. It's the perfect accompaniment to pasta, chicken, fish, and even vegetables. Here are 8 amazing ways to incorporate garlic scape pesto into your cooking.
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Easy Vegan Garlic Scape Pesto
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Cheeze, Fresh Lemon, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you're following a vegan diet, this easy garlic scape pesto recipe is a must-try. Simply omit the cheese and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy and nutty flavor. You can also add in some toasted walnuts for extra texture. Spread it on toast, use it as a dip, or toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
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Chard and Garlic Scape Pesto
Main Ingredients: Garlic Scapes, Minced Garlic, Leaves, Fresh Lemon
For a twist on traditional pesto, try adding some chard to your garlic scape pesto. The dark green leaves of chard add a refreshing bitterness that balances out the strong garlic flavor. This pesto is perfect for tossing with grilled chicken or serving as a dip for vegetables.
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Summer Garlic Scape Pesto
Main Ingredients: Garlic Scapes, Kale, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Lemon
During the summer months, when garlic scapes are in season, make the most of their fresh and vibrant flavor by making a big batch of garlic scape pesto. Freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning and use it throughout the year. This pesto is perfect for adding to soups, stews, and sauces for an extra burst of flavor.
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Easy Garlic Scape Pesto
Main Ingredients: Garlic Scapes, Garlic, Kale, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you're short on time, this easy garlic scape pesto recipe is for you. Simply blend together garlic scapes, olive oil, lemon juice, and walnuts for a quick and delicious sauce. You can also add in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor. Use it as a marinade for chicken, mix it into dips, or spread it on sandwiches for a zesty kick.
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Kale Basil Pistachio Garlic Scape Pesto
Main Ingredients: Kale, Basil, Garlic Scapes, Garlic, Pistachios
This pesto recipe is a nutrient powerhouse. Packed with kale, basil, pistachios, and garlic scapes, it's a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal. The pistachios add a unique and nutty flavor, while the kale provides a dose of vitamins and minerals. Serve this pesto over grilled vegetables for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
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Asparagus Garlic Scape Pesto Spaghetti
Main Ingredients: Asparagus, Whole Wheat Spaghetti Noodles, Garlic Scape
For a light and refreshing summer meal, try this asparagus and garlic scape pesto spaghetti recipe. The sweetness of the asparagus complements the sharpness of the garlic scapes, creating a perfectly balanced pesto. Top it off with some grilled shrimp or chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Spaghetti with Garlic Scape Pesto with Tomatoes
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Basil Pesto, Cherry Tomatoes, Kosher Salt
This spaghetti dish is bursting with fresh and summery flavors. Toss cooked spaghetti with garlic scape pesto and top it off with juicy cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering with friends and family.
The Versatility of Garlic Scapes
What are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the shoots that grow from garlic bulbs. They are usually harvested in early summer and have a mild garlic flavor with a slightly sweet and earthy taste. With their unique texture and flavor, garlic scapes add a depth of flavor to any dish they are used in.
Why Use Garlic Scapes in Pesto?
Traditionally, pesto is made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. However, using garlic scapes in place of garlic cloves adds a subtle and unique twist to this classic sauce. The milder flavor of garlic scapes allows for the other ingredients to shine, creating a well-balanced and flavorful pesto.
Chef John's Garlic Scape Pesto Recipes
Garlic Scape and Walnut Pesto
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of garlic scapes and walnuts to create a delicious and versatile pesto. Simply blend together garlic scapes, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Use this pesto as a spread for sandwiches, mix it into pasta, or use it as a marinade for grilled meats.
Garlic Scape and Arugula Pesto
For a peppery and bright twist on traditional pesto, try this garlic scape and arugula pesto recipe. In addition to the usual ingredients, this recipe adds a handful of arugula for a pop of flavor and color. The arugula adds a slight bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the garlic scapes, making this pesto perfect for tossing with pasta or using as a dip for veggies.
Garlic Scape and Avocado Pesto
For a creamy and indulgent pesto, try Chef John's garlic scape and avocado pesto recipe. The addition of avocado adds a rich and velvety texture to the pesto, while the garlic scapes add a punch of flavor. This pesto is perfect for spreading on toast, using as a sauce for grilled fish or chicken, or mixing into warm pasta for a quick and delicious meal.
In Conclusion
Using garlic scapes in pesto is a creative and delicious way to add a unique twist to this classic sauce. With Chef John's garlic scape pesto recipes, you can enjoy the versatility and flavor of garlic scapes in a variety of dishes. So next time you see those curly green shoots at the farmers' market, grab them and make some homemade garlic scape pesto. Your taste buds will thank you.
