Emulsifier Free Vegan Garlic Scape Pesto
Garlic scapes bring a mellow, grassy heat that's somewhere between fresh garlic and a spring onion, and blended with bright basil and toasted pine nuts, they make a pesto that feels genuinely exciting. Every ingredient here is whole and straightforward — there's no need to scan labels for hidden additives or emulsifying agents that sneak into so many store-bought condiments and sauces. Nutritional yeast steps in to deliver that savory, cheesy depth without any dairy, making this completely plant-based without sacrificing richness. Toasting the pine nuts first is a small step that pays off big, adding a warm, nutty complexity that anchors the whole sauce. A squeeze of lemon juice and a little zest keep everything tasting fresh and vibrant rather than heavy. The olive oil is streamed in slowly so the pesto comes together into a thick, glossy paste you can thin to exactly the consistency you want. Toss it with pasta, spread it on toast, or swirl it into soups — this one earns a permanent spot in your rotation.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- ⅓ cup pine nuts
- 6 oz garlic scapes (about 10–12 scapes), roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1–2 tbsp water, as needed
Instructions
- 1
Toast the pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer immediately to a plate to cool.
- 2
Add the garlic scapes, basil, toasted pine nuts, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to a food processor. Pulse 8–10 times until the mixture is coarsely chopped and uniform.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!