Vibrant Spinach & Garlic Scape Pesto: A Taste of Spring

There’s something magical about the first taste of spring. After a long winter, the bright green shoots pushing through the earth feel like a promise. I remember the first time I saw garlic scapes at a farmer’s market – their curly, playful shapes intrigued me. One bite, and I was hooked! The delicate garlic flavor, so much gentler than a mature bulb, sparked an idea: pesto! Combining the scapes with spinach, another early spring gem, felt like capturing the essence of the season in a jar.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yields: 2 cups
• Serves: 16
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed, well drained or 3 cups packed fresh spinach leaves
• ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
• ⅔ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup walnuts
• 8 garlic scapes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons basil
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

Equipment Needed

• Food Processor

Instructions

1. Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained. If using frozen, thaw completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Excess moisture will result in a watery pesto. For fresh spinach, wash and dry it well.
2. Combine all ingredients except the olive oil in a food processor. This includes the drained spinach, parsley, parmesan cheese, walnuts, chopped garlic scapes, and basil.
3. Begin to process the mixture, pulsing several times to initially break down the ingredients.
4. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the pesto is smooth. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Once the pesto reaches your desired consistency, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the flavors.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toast the walnuts: For a deeper, nuttier flavor, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the food processor. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
• Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thinner pesto, add more olive oil, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. For a thicker pesto, use less oil or add more nuts or cheese.
• Garlic Scape Intensity: Garlic scapes can vary in intensity depending on their age and variety. Start with 6 scapes, taste the pesto, and add more if you desire a stronger garlic flavor.
• Cheese Variations: While parmesan cheese adds a classic flavor, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
• Don’t over-process: Over-processing can lead to a pesto with a bitter taste and a less vibrant green color. Process just until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This vibrant spinach and garlic scape pesto is incredibly versatile.

• Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and flavorful meal. Add some cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a more complete dish.
• Spread: Spread it on sandwiches, wraps, or crackers for a delicious and healthy snack.
• Pizza Topping: Use it as a base for homemade pizza, topping it with mozzarella cheese and your favorite vegetables.
• Meat or Fish: Serve it as a sauce for grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
• Vegetable Dip: Use it as a dip for raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumbers.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To prevent browning, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pesto in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to thaw only the amount you need. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	168.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	155 g	92%
Total Fat	17.2 g	26%
Saturated Fat	2.9 g	14%
Cholesterol	3.7 mg	1%
Sodium	82.7 mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	1.8 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	1 g	3%
Sugars	0.3 g	1%
Protein	3.1 g	6%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Pesto: Omit the Parmesan cheese and substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
• Nut-Free Pesto: Replace the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas). These seeds offer a similar texture and nutty flavor.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs to create unique flavor profiles. Try adding mint, cilantro, or oregano to the pesto.
• Spinach Alternatives: Use other leafy greens like kale, arugula, or beet greens in place of spinach. Be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the pesto for a bright, citrusy flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular garlic if I don’t have garlic scapes?
A: While garlic scapes have a milder flavor, you can substitute with 1-2 cloves of regular garlic, minced. Be cautious as it can be much stronger.

Q: How can I prevent my pesto from turning brown?
A: Exposure to air causes oxidation. Press a layer of olive oil on top of the pesto when storing it in the refrigerator to help preserve its vibrant green color.

Q: Is it necessary to use a food processor for this recipe?
A: A food processor is ideal for achieving a smooth pesto. If you don’t have one, a blender can work in a pinch, but the texture may be slightly different.

Q: Can I make this pesto ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for longer storage.

Q: What’s the best way to thaw frozen pesto?
A: Thaw frozen pesto in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. You may need to stir it before using it.

Final Thoughts

Spinach and Garlic Scape Pesto is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring. Its versatility makes it a fantastic addition to countless dishes, and its vibrant color is sure to brighten any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with different variations to create your own unique pesto masterpiece. Don’t hesitate to share your feedback and creative twists – happy cooking! Perhaps enjoy it tossed with some fresh pasta and a glass of crisp, dry white wine on a sunny afternoon.