Garlic Scape Pesto

Pesto is traditionally made of toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste. However, I refer to pesto as any combination of a fresh herb, raw or toasted nut, any type of oil, any different seasonings. 

For this pesto though, we got in a big batch of fresh garlic scapes. I blended them up really well for a while, as they are quite fibrous, and then added toasted cashews, oil, salt, and pepper. I actually didn't use any herbs at all, though some could easily be added for another flavor profile. Because there are no herbs, the garlic flavor is quite strong, so a little goes a long way. Mix the pesto with a little mayonnaise though and you've got yourself a great dip!

Cheddar and Garlic Scape Tartlets

Homemade puff pastry tartlet
Garlic scape pesto
Locally made cheddar cheese
Roasted sweet cherry tomato
Balsamic drizzle
Fresh basil

Slice the tart in half horizontally. Spread the inside with garlic scape pesto.
Top with the cheese, Toast in the oven.
Top with another dollop of pesto.
To roast the tomatoes, toss in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast just until skin is blistered.
Top the tart with a cherry tomato, drizzle with balsamic reduction, and top with a basil leaf.

Culinary Exchange - Day Thirteen

In concluding my trip, here is a collection of all the food photos from may delicious meals I enjoyed!

Culinary Exchange - Day Twelve

Unfortunately my trip is now reaching an end and it is time to return home. Here is a new collection of photos highlighting my trip.