Ingredient Spotlight: Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are the flower stalks that hardneck garlic plants send up in late spring and early summer. Farmers and gardeners often trim these scapes to direct the plant’s energy back into the bulb, to encourage the plant to spend its energy making larger garlic bulbs!
What Are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are bright green and have a curly (very whimsical) look. Its texture is similar to that of asparagus or green beans and its flavor is garlicky but milder and sweeter than garlic cloves. It’s the perfect addition to dishes where you just want a whisper of garlic! When buying garlic scapes (mostly from farmer’s markets, sometimes in grocery stores), look for firm, bright green stalks with no signs of wilting or yellowing.
Tips: thin scapes are tender while thick scapes can be tougher and more fibrous.
Garlic scapes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag to keep them fresh. For longer storage, you can also chop and freeze them, or make a batch of garlic scape pesto and freeze it in portions.
Ways to use your scapes:
1. Garlic Scape Pesto
Blend garlic scapes with olive oil, nuts (like pine nuts or almonds), Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and salt for a twist on basil pesto. Use it like you would “classic” pesto, as a pasta sauce, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for vegetables.
2. Grilled or Roasted Garlic Scapes
Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill or roast until tender, about 10 mins on heat (you want to see some blisters). This can make a great side dish or to top your salads or pizzas!
3. Sautéed Garlic Scapes
Cut them into bite-sized pieces and sauté with olive oil and a pinch of salt until tender. Add them to stir-fries, pasta dishes, or scrambled eggs for a garlicky whisper.
4. Pickled Garlic Scapes
Blanch the scapes quickly, then immerse them in a brine of vinegar, water, salt, and spices. Store them in the refrigerator and use them as a tangy addition to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards.
Next time you spot these curly green stalks at the farmer’s market or in your garden, grab at the opportunity to experiment!
