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Fresh Garlic Scape Pesto Pasta Recipe with Parmesan and Toasted Pine Nuts

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A quick and easy pasta recipe featuring fresh garlic scape pesto with Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts, perfect for celebrating spring’s vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup garlic scapes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti or linguine preferred)
  • Optional: a handful of fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Toast the pine nuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1/3 cup pine nuts and swirl frequently for 3–5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove immediately to a plate to cool.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. Prepare the pesto: While pasta cooks, place 1 cup chopped garlic scapes, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice into the food processor. Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add basil if using.
  4. Toss pasta and pesto: Return drained pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the pesto and toss to coat evenly. If the pesto feels too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until you reach a silky consistency.
  5. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta and sprinkle extra Parmesan and a few whole pine nuts on top. Drizzle with olive oil to finish.

Notes

Do not over-process the pesto to maintain a rustic texture. Toast pine nuts slowly on low heat to avoid bitterness. Save some pasta water to adjust pesto consistency. Pesto keeps refrigerated up to 3 days; avoid freezing with cheese. Substitute nuts or use vegan/dairy-free alternatives as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic scape pesto, pesto pasta, fresh garlic scapes, Parmesan pasta, toasted pine nuts, spring recipe, easy pasta recipe

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/fresh-garlic-scape-pesto-pasta-recipe-with-parmesan-and-toasted-pine-nuts-easy-and-delicious/