Garlic scape pesto pasta with broccoli

Photo from lastingredient.com

Garlic scape pesto (makes about 2 cups):

12 medium sized garlic scapes, trimmed and chopped

1 cup olive oil

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/2 cup toasted chopped walnuts

1/4 cup lemon juice

1 tsp. salt

Pasta and assembly:

1 lb. pasta of your choice- penne or spirals are a good choice for this recipe 

1 large bunch 1 lb. broccoli- cut into bite sized pieces- thinly sliced spinach or swiss chard will work as well

toasted walnuts, parmesan cheese and parsley for garnishing, optional

Fresh parsley or basil for garnishing, optional

Combine all pesto ingredients in a food processor.  Blend until smooth, taste, and add more salt if needed. Cook pasta according to the package directions.  Add the broccoli  to the pasta water in the last 3 minutes of cooking.  Drain the pasta/broccoli, rinse with cold water. Add as much of the garlic scape pesto as you wish and stir well to combine.  Garnish and serve- serves 4-6.  You could also stir in some sliced cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor!