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Wondering what to do with garlic scapes? Embrace summer produce with these fresh, nutritious, and delicious recipes!
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Strolling through my farmer’s market is an exploration of the senses. Vibrant hues of blues, greens, and reds bursting with sweet and savory flavors beckon me. As I place a rainbow of produce in my basket, my head is buzzing with meal ideas. Some of these foods I know well- blueberries in powder blue baskets, stalks of brussel sprouts as long as my arm, heads of fluffy lettuce, etc. Others, like garlic scapes- the long, swirly green stems with the heavy garlic smell- are less well-known. But, like other ripe produce, these late summer stems are known for a bold flavor you’ll want to enjoy in an array of your summer dishes.
Embracing an array of produce, known and unknown, from my farmers’ market is more than just a culinary delight. It’s a sustainable way of eating. One-third of human-caused greenhouse gases are linked to our food system. Eating locally and seasonally, cooking more plant-based meals, and reducing food waste are three ways we as consumers can reduce our impact. Each of these habits reduces methane and CO2 emissions. Who knew enjoying shopping at my local farmers’ markets could be so impactful?
Garlic scapes are the curly, green stalks that appear when garlic is ready to flower. Chefs and food lovers know just how tasty and healthy these stems can be. If you haven’t tried them yet, now’s the perfect time to explore their flavor and nutrition. I’m sharing three simple ways to cook them I’ve adopted in my kitchen for maximum flavor and nutrition.
What Are Garlic Scapes?
Simply put, garlic scapes are the flowering stalks of hardneck garlic plants. They grow during the garlic’s early summer stage, before the bulb fully rounds out. Think of them as a precursor for what’s to come. These curly stems are a sign that your garlic is healthy and ready to harvest. Farmers cut the scapes to encourage the plant to put its energy into the garlic bulb, but that doesn’t mean they’re not delicious on their own.
Farmers pick garlic scapes by hand when they’re young and tender. A fresh scape should be firm and vibrant green with a slight curl. They’re often trimmed to prevent the plant from flowering and to boost garlic bulb growth.
When buying, look for bright green, firm scapes without brown spots or limpness. Store them in the fridge wrapped loosely in a plastic bag—use within a week for the best flavor.
It’s easy to confuse garlic scapes with green onions, but they’re quite different. The main difference? The scape is the flowering stalk, not the bulb.
- Visuals: Scapes are long, curly, and green. Garlic bulbs are smaller, white, and round.
- Taste: Scapes have a milder garlic flavor with a hint of sweetness. The bulbs are punchier, tangy, and more pungent.
- Use: Scapes are great in fresh dishes or lightly cooked, while bulbs are often roasted or used in cooking to add garlic flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Garlic scapes pack quite a punch when it comes to nutrients. They contain vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system, and vitamin A for good eyesight and skin health. Plus, they offer calcium and potassium, both vital for bone health and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Garlic is famous for compounds like allicin, a powerful sulfur compound with many health perks. Garlic scapes also contain these sulfur compounds, which work as antioxidants. These antioxidants fight free radicals—unstable molecules that damage cells and cause aging and disease.
Scientific studies show that garlic compounds are linked to improved heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol. They may also help prevent certain cancers and support immune function. Plus, because garlic scapes are low in calories but rich in nutrients, they’re a smart addition to any diet.
Sautéed Garlic Scapes: Simple and Flavorful
Prep & Cooking Instructions
Start with fresh garlic scapes, some olive oil, salt, and optional garlic for more flavor. Rinse the scapes thoroughly and trim off the tough ends. Chop them into small pieces or leave long for a more rustic look.
Heat a pan with olive oil on medium heat. Toss in the scapes and cook for 3–5 minutes until they soften and become slightly crispy. For a little extra flavor, add minced garlic while cooking. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Sautéed garlic scapes are delicious with a simple pasta and olive oil dish. They also pair well with grilled chicken or mushrooms (if you’re enjoying a plant-based diet). And don’t be afraid to toss them into rice for added flavor, too.
Grilled: Perfect for Summer Barbecues
Prep & Grilling Instructions
Brush the scapes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. A pro tip is to leave them long to make them easier for grilling. For extra zest, I love to squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over them before grilling.
Preheat your grill to medium-high. Place the scapes directly on the grill or on skewers to prevent falling through. Grill for 2–4 minutes per side until they have good char marks and are tender.
Creative Serving
Grilled garlic scapes are excellent on toasted bread for an updated Bruschetta. Toss them into salads or pack them into veggie skewers for the next cookout. Trust me, you’ll love their smoky garlic flavor that’s hard to beat.
Pickled Garlic Scapes: A Savory Snack or Condiment
Ingredients and Pickling Process
Gather vinegar (white or apple cider), water, salt, sugar, and herbs such as dill or coriander. Use sterilized jars and lids for safety. You can also add peppercorns or chili flakes for spice.
Blanch the scapes in boiling water for a minute, then pack them into jars. Mix the pickling brine—equal parts vinegar and water with dissolved salt and sugar—and pour over the scapes. Seal and store in the fridge or process in water bath for longer shelf life.
Usage Ideas
Pickled garlic scapes are a fast way to elevate classic sandwiches. They’re also a perfect touch for charcuterie boards your guests will ‘oo and ah’ over.
Garlic scapes are more than just a seasonal treat—they’re a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and flavor, they add a fresh twist to many dishes. From sautéing to grilling or pickling, exploring new ways to cook garlic scapes can brighten your meals and boost your health. Don’t let this underrated veggie fall off your radar—try incorporating garlic scapes into your cooking and enjoy their vibrant taste all season long.
