5 Delicious Garlic Scape Recipes You Must Try

Looking to add a twist to your culinary creations? Garlic scapes, the curly, vibrant green shoots that spring up from garlic bulbs, might just be the ingredient you need. Not only do they provide a milder garlic flavor compared to the bulbs, but they also bring a unique texture and nutritional benefits to dishes. Here are five delicious recipes featuring garlic scapes that are sure to delight your taste buds:

1. Garlic Scape Pesto

Nothing beats the vibrant freshness of pesto, and when made with garlic scapes, it takes on a delightful new dimension.

• 10-12 garlic scapes, chopped
• 1/3 cup of walnuts or pine nuts
• 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon juice for taste (optional)

Steps:

1. Pulse the garlic scapes and nuts in a food processor until finely chopped.
2. Add Parmesan cheese, pulse again to combine.
3. Drizzle in olive oil while the processor runs until you get the desired consistency.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using.

Serve this pesto over pasta, as a spread on bread, or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.

2. Garlic Scape and Potato Soup

Warm up with this comforting soup that celebrates the subtle garlic flavor of scapes.

• 4-5 garlic scapes, finely chopped
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot, sauté onions and garlic scapes until soft.
2. Add potatoes and broth, bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender.
3. Purée the soup until smooth, add cream, and season to taste.

💡 Note: For a smoother texture, blend half of the soup and mix it back into the chunky part.

3. Grilled Garlic Scape Skewers

Turn your BBQ into a garlic festival with these easy-to-make skewers.

• 10-15 garlic scapes
• Olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings

Steps:

1. Trim the garlic scapes and thread onto skewers.
2. Brush with olive oil and season.
3. Grill over medium heat until tender and slightly charred.

4. Garlic Scape Frittata

Start your day with a burst of flavor with this vibrant frittata.

• 5-6 garlic scapes, chopped
• 6 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (like Cheddar or Gruyère)
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In an oven-safe skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic scapes.
3. Whisk eggs with milk, cheese, salt, and pepper, then pour over the scapes.
4. Cook on the stove until the edges set, then transfer to the oven.
5. Bake until the frittata is set in the middle.

5. Garlic Scape Pickles

Preserve the fresh taste of garlic scapes with this pickling recipe.

• 2 cups garlic scapes, trimmed
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp peppercorns
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Steps:

1. Combine all ingredients except the scapes in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Once the brine is boiling, pour it over the garlic scapes packed in sterilized jars.
3. Seal the jars and let them cool. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before consuming.

These recipes not only highlight the unique flavor profile of garlic scapes but also show their versatility in both savory and preserved dishes. Whether you're looking to enhance your dinner menu or explore preservation methods, garlic scapes provide an exciting and flavorful twist to your culinary adventures.

What are garlic scapes?

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Garlic scapes are the flowering stalks of garlic plants, which are often trimmed to encourage bulb growth. They have a milder garlic flavor, are green, and have a curly appearance.

How can I store garlic scapes?

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Garlic scapes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. For longer storage, you can blanch and freeze them, or pickle them as per the recipe mentioned.

Are there any nutritional benefits to eating garlic scapes?

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Yes, garlic scapes are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, potassium, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

Can I substitute garlic scapes for garlic?

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Yes, you can use garlic scapes as a substitute for garlic cloves. Keep in mind that their flavor is milder, so you might need to adjust quantities or enhance with garlic powder if a stronger flavor is desired.

Where can I find garlic scapes?

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Look for garlic scapes at local farmers’ markets or in the produce section of grocery stores when they are in season, typically in late spring to early summer.