Garlic Scapes: Recipes, Tips, and Everything You Need to Know

Right, let's talk about garlic scapes. You know, those curly, green shoots that pop up from garlic plants? They're not just a pretty sight, they're a culinary treasure, a flavourful little bonus that often gets overlooked. And trust me, once you’ve tasted them, you’ll be hooked.

Part 1: What are Garlic Scapes?

A Culinary Treasure

Garlic scapes are essentially the flower buds of the garlic plant. They're a seasonal treat, appearing in late spring and early summer, and they're bursting with flavour – a vibrant combination of garlic, with a hint of onion and a touch of asparagus. They're not just a beautiful addition to your garden, but they offer a delicious way to enjoy garlic in a new way.

Growing Garlic Scapes

I've been growing my own garlic for a few years now, and I love the whole process. Watching those little scapes emerge from the soil is like watching a little miracle unfold. But even if you’re not a gardener, don’t worry! You can find scapes at farmers’ markets, specialty food stores, and even some supermarkets, depending on where you live.

Why Use Garlic Scapes?

Well, firstly, they're absolutely delicious. They offer a unique flavour profile that's fresh, vibrant, and undeniably delicious. And secondly, using them is a great way to reduce food waste – instead of letting those scapes just go to seed, you can use them in your cooking, adding a delightful twist to many dishes.

Part 2: Selecting and Storing Garlic Scapes

Choosing the Right Scapes

When you’re picking out scapes, look for firm, bright green ones. They should be springy and free of any soft spots. You want them to feel almost like a springy, sturdy asparagus stalk. Avoid any that are wilting or have brown tips – they’re not as fresh and won’t taste as good.

Storing Garlic Scapes

To keep your scapes fresh for up to a week, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in the fridge. This helps maintain their moisture and prevents them from drying out. You can also freeze them, but they might lose some of their texture and vibrant green colour.

Part 3: Preparing Garlic Scapes for Cooking

Cleaning Your Scapes

First, give your garlic scapes a good wash to remove any dirt or debris. A quick rinse under cold water is usually enough. You can then trim off the very bottom of the scape, where it connects to the garlic bulb. This section is usually tough and fibrous and won't contribute to your delicious dish.

Prepping for Recipes

For some recipes, you can simply chop the scapes into small pieces, similar to how you might chop garlic cloves. For others, you might want to thinly slice them or chop them into larger pieces. I like to keep a few whole scapes for stir-fries, as the texture adds a bit of crunch.

Part 4: Cooking with Garlic Scapes

simple recipes

One of my favourite things to do with garlic scapes is to sauté them with olive oil and a bit of salt and pepper. The flavour is incredible, and the texture is perfect. You can also add them to your favourite pasta dishes or throw them in a stir-fry. They're fantastic in scrambled eggs too!

Unique Recipes

Want to be a bit more adventurous? Try using garlic scapes in pesto. They make an amazing addition to a classic basil pesto, adding a depth of flavour that you won't find anywhere else. They also make a delicious addition to dips, sauces, and even infused oils.

Recipes to Try

Let’s dive into some recipes:

Garlic Scape Pesto

Ingredients:

1 cup garlic scapes, chopped

1 cup packed fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the scapes, basil, Parmesan, olive oil, and garlic.

2. Pulse until well combined, but don’t over-process. You want a chunky, rustic pesto, not a smooth one.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later use. This pesto will keep well for a few days, adding a burst of garlic scape flavour to your pasta, sandwiches, or even pizzas.

Garlic Scape Pasta

Ingredients:

1 pound pasta (choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce well, like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)

1/2 cup olive oil

1 cup garlic scapes, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the scapes and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the scapes and garlic.

5. Toss to combine and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately. This is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the garlic scape flavour beautifully.

Garlic Scape Soup

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup chopped garlic scapes

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable broth (you can use chicken broth if you prefer)

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the scapes, onion, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

5. Stir in the parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve hot. This soup is a flavourful and comforting dish, perfect for a chilly evening.

Garlic Scape Pizza

Ingredients:

1 pizza dough (you can use store-bought or make your own)

1/2 cup garlic scapes, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Additional toppings of your choice (such as mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, or roasted peppers)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).

2. Stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.

3. Brush the dough with olive oil.

4. Sprinkle with the garlic scapes, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper. You can also add your additional toppings at this point.

5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted. This pizza is a fantastic way to add a unique flavour twist to a classic dish.

Part 5: Tips for Cooking with Garlic Scapes

Embrace the Flavour

Garlic scapes have a strong, unique flavour, so don’t be afraid to use them liberally. They're a great addition to almost any dish, adding a burst of fresh flavour that's sure to impress your guests.

Cook Them Gently

Garlic scapes can be cooked in a variety of ways, but they're best cooked gently to prevent them from becoming tough and bitter. I find that sautéing them in olive oil over medium heat is a great way to bring out their flavour without making them tough.

Experiment with Textures

You can chop garlic scapes into small pieces, slice them thinly, or even use them whole. Experiment with different sizes and shapes to find what you like best. Adding some thinly sliced scapes to your favourite pasta dish adds a bit of texture that’s quite lovely.

Use Them in Place of Garlic

Garlic scapes can be used as a substitute for garlic in many recipes. They have a milder flavour than garlic cloves, but they still pack a punch. They can be a great alternative for those who enjoy the flavour of garlic but find it too strong.

Part 6: Storing Garlic Scapes

Refrigeration

For the best results, store your garlic scapes in the refrigerator. Wrap them in a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Stored this way, they should stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

You can also freeze garlic scapes for later use. To do this, simply blanch the scapes for a few minutes, then drain and pat them dry. Place them in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Blanching helps preserve their colour and texture.

Part 7: Growing Garlic Scapes

Planting Garlic

If you're a keen gardener, consider planting your own garlic bulbs. You can find garlic bulbs at most garden centres, and they’re usually available in the fall.

Growing Garlic Scapes

Garlic scapes typically emerge in late spring or early summer. They’re best harvested when they’re still tender and green. To harvest scapes, simply snip them off the plant just above the bulb.

Part 8: Garlic Scape Health Benefits

Rich in Nutrients

Garlic scapes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re particularly rich in vitamin C, manganese, and selenium. These nutrients are important for various bodily functions, including immune health, energy production, and antioxidant protection.

Potential Health Benefits

Garlic scapes may also have several health benefits, including boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving heart health. These potential benefits are linked to the presence of compounds like allicin, which is also found in garlic cloves.

Part 9: FAQs

1. What do garlic scapes taste like?

Garlic scapes have a flavour that’s a mix of garlic, onion, and asparagus. They have a slightly sweet flavour with a bit of a bite. Think of it as a more refined, delicate version of garlic with an added touch of green vegetable flavour.

2. How do you know when garlic scapes are ready to harvest?

Garlic scapes are ready to harvest when they’re about 6-8 inches long and the tip of the scape starts to curl. This indicates that the scape is nearing its flowering stage and will become more fibrous and less flavourful.

3. Can you eat garlic scapes raw?

Yes, you can eat garlic scapes raw. They have a slightly more intense flavour when eaten raw, but they’re still delicious. Try adding them to salads or sandwiches for a fresh, crunchy addition.

4. Are garlic scapes good for you?

Garlic scapes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They may also have several health benefits. The rich nutritional content and potential health benefits make them a delicious and healthy addition to your diet.

5. What can I do with garlic scapes?

Garlic scapes can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple sauteed scapes to more complex recipes like pesto and soup. They can also be used as a substitute for garlic in many recipes. Their versatility makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Part 10: Conclusion

Well, there you have it! Everything you need to know about garlic scapes. From selecting and storing them to cooking with them, I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the world of garlic scapes. So next time you see them at the market, don’t hesitate to grab a bunch. You’re in for a delicious treat!