Fresh Pesto: Garlic Scape Arugula Pesto Recipe
Pesto lovers, get ready to elevate your pasta dishes with a twist on the classic recipe! In this article, we will be sharing a delicious and easy-to-make Garlic Scape Arugula Pesto recipe that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, this fresh pesto is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this flavorful and fragrant sauce that will take your meals to the next level.
Contents
Overview of Fresh Pesto
Fresh pesto is a versatile and flavorful sauce that can elevate any dish. This Garlic Scape Arugula Pesto recipe offers a unique twist on the classic basil pesto, using garlic scapes and peppery arugula to create a vibrant and delicious sauce.
Garlic scapes are the curly green shoots that grow from garlic bulbs and have a mild garlic flavor that adds depth to the pesto. Arugula brings a peppery kick and bright color to the sauce, making it a perfect topping for pasta, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. This recipe is simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Garlic scapes | 1 cup |
| Arugula | 2 cups |
| Walnuts | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Olive oil | 1/2 cup |
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
To begin making this flavorful Garlic Scape Arugula Pesto, gather all your ingredients and tools in one place. Create a clean workspace and have your food processor ready for action.
Next, add the fresh garlic scapes, arugula, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt into the food processor. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped and blended together.
Once the mixture is well combined, slowly pour in the olive oil while the food processor is running until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your vibrant and aromatic pesto is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Storing Pesto
Storing pesto properly is essential to maintaining its fresh flavor and vibrant color. Here are some tips to ensure your homemade garlic scape arugula pesto stays delicious:
- Transfer the pesto to an airtight container, covering the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to create a barrier from air.
- Store the pesto in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning and use within 3 months.
- For longer storage, consider canning the pesto using a pressure canner to preserve it for up to a year.
Nutritional Information of Garlic Scape Arugula Pesto
In addition to being incredibly flavorful, garlic scape arugula pesto is also packed with nutritional benefits. This vibrant green pesto is not only delicious but also offers a variety of essential nutrients that can support overall health and well-being.
Here is the :
- Calories: 120 per serving
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C: 20% of the daily recommended intake
- Vitamin K: 15% of the daily recommended intake
With a nutrient-dense profile, garlic scape arugula pesto is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. Whether you use it as a spread on sandwiches, a topping for pasta, or a dip for vegetables, this flavorful pesto is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Variations and Substitutions for Different Tastes
For those looking to mix up their traditional pesto recipe, consider substituting basil with garlic scapes and arugula for a unique twist on this classic sauce. Garlic scapes, the curly green shoots that grow from garlic bulbs, add a mild garlic flavor without the intensity of raw garlic. Arugula, with its peppery taste, complements the garlic scapes and adds a fresh, slightly bitter note to the pesto.
To make this Garlic Scape Arugula Pesto, simply blend together garlic scapes, arugula, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences, adding more garlic scapes for a stronger garlic flavor or increasing the arugula for a peppery kick. This versatile pesto can be used as a pasta sauce, spread on sandwiches, or drizzled over grilled vegetables for a burst of flavor.
If you’re looking to further customize this pesto recipe, consider experimenting with different nuts, cheeses, or herbs. Try swapping out pine nuts for walnuts or almonds, using pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan, or adding in fresh basil or mint for a unique flavor profile. The beauty of pesto is its adaptability, so don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your tastes.
In Retrospect
In conclusion, fresh pesto is a delicious and versatile sauce that can elevate any dish with its vibrant flavors and aroma. By using garlic scapes and arugula in this recipe, you can enjoy a unique twist on the classic basil pesto. Experimenting with different ingredients and ratios can help you create a pesto that suits your taste preferences perfectly. So next time you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your meal, why not give this garlic scape arugula pesto recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
