If you’ve ever visited a farmers market in late spring or early summer, you’ve probably spotted curly green stalks called garlic scapes. These tender shoots grow from hardneck garlic plants and have a mild garlic flavor that’s less intense than garlic cloves. They’re versatile, nutritious, and perfect for adding fresh flavor to a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re harvesting garlic scapes from your garden or picking them up at the market, these easy recipes will help you make the most of this seasonal ingredient.
What Are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the flowering stems of hardneck garlic plants. Farmers often remove them to encourage larger garlic bulbs, making the scapes a delicious bonus harvest.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Scapes
- Mild garlic flavor
- Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
- Easy to cook
- Great in sauces, stir-fries, salads, and more
- Seasonal and fresh
Let’s explore ten simple garlic scape recipes.
1. Garlic Scape Pesto
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped garlic scapes
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Add garlic scapes, cheese, and nuts to a food processor.
- Blend while slowly adding olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and grilled vegetables.