Garlic Scape and Basil Pesto

Garlic Scape and Basil Pesto

kosher

Garlic scapes are the curly tops of garlic plants, often found at local farmers markets.  They can be sauteed, but I find them a bit to fibrous and the garlic flavor a bit aggressive for that preparation.  Where I think they really shine is in pesto.  By blending the scapes into a sauce, it breaks down the fibers, and by adding olive oil and Parmesan cheese, their richness along with some acid from lemon juice can tame the strong garlic flavor.

Garlic Scape and Basil Pesto

1 Cup Chopped Garlic Scapes

1 Cup Fresh Chopped Basil

1 Cup Toasted Pine Nuts

1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

1 Cup Olive Oil

Juice Of 1 Lemon

Salt and Pepper

Put the garlic scapes, basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and lemon juice to your food processor and process until smooth.  While the food processor is running drizzle the olive oil in until the the sauce comes together.  Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste.  Serve over your favorite pasta.