Garlic scape pesto, pea and Swiss chard pasta

I wanted to think of a dish that would incorporate the Swiss chard, garlic scapes and peas I got at the farmers market today. I ended up with something colorful, fresh and delicious. Perfect light pasta dish for a summer day. 

Garlic Scape Pesto, Pea & Swiss Chard Pasta 

Ingredients

• 1 bunch Swiss chard

• 1 cup shelled peas (reserve a few pods)

• 2 tbs lemon juice 

• Olive oil 

• Parmesan cheese 

• Garlic scapes

First make the pesto:

Place the garlic scapes in a food processor and blend until fairly smooth. Add olive oil until pesto is desired consistency. Voila!

Now the chard:

Separate stems from chard and chop into 1-2 inch thick pieces. Add olive oil to a saucepan and cook chard for 5 minutes. Drizzle with lemon juice. 

Cook pasta and set aside.

Cook peas in boiling water for 4-5 minutes. 

Toss pasta with pesto and peas and serve on a bed of sautéed Swiss chard. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and pea pods.