Garlic scapes are the edible flower stalks of hardneck garlic plants. These curly, vibrant green shoots offer a milder garlic flavor and a tender texture, making them a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. To cook garlic scapes, simply sauté them in butter or oil over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until browned and tender.
For those unfamiliar with garlic scapes, they’re typically available in late spring to early summer at farmers’ markets or specialty grocers. Their unique shape and flavor add interest to a variety of dishes. Garlic scapes can be used raw, chopped into salads or pesto, or cooked in stir-fries, soups, and more.
Experimenting with garlic scapes opens up new culinary possibilities. They can be grilled, roasted, or even pickled for long-term enjoyment. Their versatility extends beyond savory dishes – try blending them into compound butter or using them as a garnish for added visual appeal and flavor.
Understanding Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are the edible flower stalks of hardneck garlic plants. These curly, vibrant green shoots offer a milder garlic flavor and unique texture compared to traditional garlic cloves.
The Anatomy of Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes emerge from the center of hardneck garlic plants in late spring or early summer. They grow as long, slender stalks with a distinctive curl or loop at the top.
The scape consists of three main parts:
- The stem: A firm, flexible stalk
- The bulbil: A small swelling near the top that contains tiny garlic cloves
- The tip: A pointed end that would develop into a flower if left on the plant
Farmers harvest scapes to redirect the plant’s energy into bulb growth. This practice results in larger garlic bulbs and provides an early-season garlic product for markets and kitchens.
Varieties and Seasonality
Garlic scapes are typically available for a short window in late spring to early summer. They’re often found at farmers markets and specialty grocery stores during this time.
Not all garlic varieties produce scapes. Hardneck garlic types, such as Rocambole, Porcelain, and Purple Stripe, are the primary sources of scapes. Softneck garlic, commonly found in supermarkets, doesn’t develop these edible shoots.
Scape appearance can vary slightly between garlic varieties:
- Some may have tighter curls
- Others might grow straighter
- Color can range from pale to deep green
Freshness is key when selecting scapes. Look for firm, bright green stalks without yellowing or wilting for the best flavor and texture.
Preparation Techniques
Properly preparing garlic scapes is essential for bringing out their unique flavor and texture. The key steps involve cleaning, trimming, and cutting the scapes into appropriate sizes for cooking.
Cleaning and Trimming
Rinse garlic scapes under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Examine each scape and trim off the tough, fibrous end near the cut. This part is often woody and unpleasant to eat.
Remove the thin, wispy tip at the other end of the scape. Some cooks prefer to keep the tender flower bud intact for aesthetic purposes. If the scapes are very long, cut them into more manageable lengths of about 4-6 inches.
Chopping and Dicing
For most recipes, garlic scapes can be chopped into smaller pieces. Cut them into 1/4 to 1/2 inch segments for sautéing or adding to stir-fries. For a finer texture, dice the scapes into smaller pieces similar to minced garlic.
To create uniform pieces, align several scapes side by side and chop them together. For a rough chop, use a rocking motion with a chef’s knife. For finer pieces, a food processor can quickly dice larger quantities of scapes.
When using scapes raw in salads or as a garnish, slice them thinly on a diagonal for an attractive presentation. This cut also helps release their flavors more readily.
Cooking Methods
Garlic scapes can be prepared using various techniques to bring out their unique flavor and texture. Each method offers a different way to enjoy these versatile springtime delicacies.
Grilling Garlic Scapes
Grilling imparts a smoky flavor to garlic scapes while maintaining their crisp texture. Toss the scapes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the scapes directly on the grates perpendicular to the bars to prevent them from falling through.
Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning once. The scapes should develop char marks and become tender. Remove from the grill when they’re slightly charred but still have some bite.
For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled scapes and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve as a side dish or chop and add to salads or pasta.
Sautéing Garlic Scapes
Sautéing is a quick and easy method to cook garlic scapes. Start by heating a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Chop the scapes into 1-inch pieces.
Add the chopped scapes to the hot pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The scapes should become tender and lightly browned. For extra tenderness, add a splash of water and cover the pan for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sautéed garlic scapes make an excellent side dish or can be incorporated into stir-fries, omelets, or pasta dishes.
Blanching and Freezing
Blanching garlic scapes is an excellent way to preserve them for future use. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare an ice bath in a separate bowl.
Cut the scapes into desired lengths. Submerge them in the boiling water for 30 seconds. Quickly remove and plunge into the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Once cooled, drain and pat dry. Place the blanched scapes in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To use, thaw in the refrigerator and add to soups, stews, or sauté as desired. Blanched and frozen scapes retain much of their flavor and can be used in various recipes throughout the year.
Incorporating Into Dishes
Garlic scapes offer versatile uses in cooking, providing a milder garlic flavor to various dishes. Their unique taste and texture can enhance both hot and cold preparations, adding depth and complexity to recipes.
Garlic Scape Pesto
Garlic scape pesto is a popular way to use these flavorful greens. Blend chopped scapes with pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor. Adjust ingredients to taste, adding more olive oil for a smoother consistency.
This vibrant pesto pairs well with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables. It can be frozen in small portions for later use, extending the enjoyment of garlic scapes beyond their short growing season.
Try tossing garlic scape pesto with roasted vegetables or use it as a marinade for grilled meats. Its bright flavor complements fish dishes and can elevate simple grilled chicken or shrimp.
Compound Butter and Seasoning
Create a flavorful compound butter by mixing finely chopped garlic scapes with softened butter, salt, and herbs. This versatile spread enhances bread, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats.
Roll the butter mixture into a log using parchment paper and refrigerate or freeze for future use. Slice coins of the compound butter to melt over steaks, fish, or baked potatoes.
For a quick seasoning, dry and grind garlic scapes into a powder. Use this aromatic seasoning in rubs for meats, sprinkle over popcorn, or mix into salad dressings for an extra kick of garlic flavor.
Adding to Eggs and Frittatas
Incorporate chopped garlic scapes into egg dishes for a subtle garlic flavor. Sauté scapes briefly before adding to scrambled eggs or omelets. Their mild taste won’t overpower the eggs but will add depth to the dish.
For frittatas, distribute sautéed garlic scapes evenly throughout the egg mixture before baking. Pair with cheese, vegetables, or meats for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Try adding garlic scapes to quiches or egg cups for make-ahead breakfast options. Their unique flavor complements other vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms in these egg-based dishes.
Mixing into Soups and Broths
Garlic scapes can enhance the flavor profile of soups and broths. Add chopped scapes to the base of vegetable or chicken soups for a subtle garlic note. They work particularly well in creamy soups, like potato or asparagus.
For a clear broth, simmer whole garlic scapes with other aromatics, then remove before serving. This infuses the liquid with a delicate garlic essence without overpowering other flavors.
Blend garlic scapes into pureed soups for a smooth, garlicky finish. They pair especially well with green vegetables like peas or broccoli in creamy soup recipes.
Dressings and Sauces
Garlic scapes lend themselves beautifully to vibrant dressings and flavorful sauces. Their mild garlic flavor and crisp texture make them versatile ingredients for elevating everyday condiments.
Vinaigrette with a Twist
Garlic scape vinaigrette adds a zesty kick to salads and roasted vegetables. Blend chopped scapes with olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar for a bright dressing. Add honey or mustard to balance the flavors.
For a creamy version, incorporate Greek yogurt or sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This versatile dressing works well on grain bowls and as a dip for crudités.
Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using to recombine the ingredients.
Garlic Scape Infused Oils
Infusing oils with garlic scapes imparts a subtle garlic essence perfect for cooking and finishing dishes. Chop scapes finely and heat gently in olive oil over low heat for 10-15 minutes. Strain and cool before bottling.
Use garlic scape oil for sautéing vegetables, drizzling over pasta, or as a base for salad dressings. It also makes an excellent bread dipping oil when paired with balsamic vinegar.
For a spicier variation, add red pepper flakes to the infusion. Refrigerate infused oils and use within two weeks for optimal flavor and freshness.
Creative Use Cases
Garlic scapes offer versatile opportunities for culinary experimentation. Their unique flavor and texture can elevate dishes in unexpected ways.
Innovative Salad Toppings
Garlic scapes can transform ordinary salads into gourmet creations. Finely chop raw scapes and sprinkle them over mixed greens for a zesty kick. Alternatively, grill whole scapes until lightly charred and use them as a visually striking garnish.
For a more subtle approach, blend scapes into homemade salad dressings. Combine them with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a vibrant vinaigrette. Pickled garlic scapes also make excellent salad additions, offering a tangy crunch.
Consider incorporating garlic scape pesto as a salad topping. Toss it with roasted vegetables or use it to dress potato salads for added depth of flavor.
Experimenting with Breads and Hummus
Garlic scapes can infuse breads and spreads with delightful flavor. Chop scapes finely and fold them into bread dough before baking. This creates a savory loaf perfect for sandwiches or as a side dish.
For a quick appetizer, blend scapes into store-bought or homemade hummus. The result is a unique dip that pairs well with vegetables or pita chips. Try roasting the scapes before blending for a smoky variation.
Garlic scape focaccia is another creative option. Press whole or chopped scapes into the dough before baking, allowing their flavor to permeate the bread. This makes for an impressive centerpiece at gatherings.
Recipe Ideas and Inspiration
Garlic scapes offer versatile culinary possibilities. Their mild, fresh flavor enhances both simple and complex dishes.
Signature Grilled Garlic Scapes Recipe
Grilling garlic scapes brings out their natural sweetness. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Wash and trim the woody ends of the scapes.
Toss the scapes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred and tender.
Serve as a side dish or chop and add to salads, pasta, or pizza. For extra flavor, sprinkle with lemon zest or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Seasonal Dishes and Pairings
Garlic scapes shine in spring and early summer recipes. Add them to frittatas with fresh herbs and goat cheese for a light brunch dish.
Blend raw scapes into pesto with pine nuts and olive oil. Use as a spread or toss with pasta and cherry tomatoes.
Chop scapes finely and stir into softened butter. This compound butter elevates grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Pair garlic scape dishes with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement their bright flavor.
