Garlic scapes are one of those delightful garden treasures that often leave people wondering, “What do I do with these curly green stems?” If you grow garlic or pick up garlic scapes at the farmers’ market, you’ve probably noticed their bright green color, curly shape, and mild garlic flavor. These tender, edible stalks are a seasonal delight — versatile, flavorful, and packed with nutrients.
Inspired by the YouTube video “HOW TO ENJOY GARLIC SCAPES,” this blog post will explore everything you need to know about garlic scapes, from what they are, how to prepare them, to creative ways to enjoy them in your kitchen. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to incorporate garlic scapes into your meals like a pro.
What Are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the flowering stalks of hardneck garlic plants. They appear in late spring or early summer and are usually removed to encourage the garlic bulbs to grow larger.
Key Features:
- Appearance: Long, curly green stems with pointed tips.
- Texture: Tender and crisp when young; slightly fibrous as they mature.
- Flavor: Milder than garlic cloves, with a fresh, grassy taste and subtle garlic aroma.
- Nutrition: Low in calories, high in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber.
Because they’re harvested before the garlic plant flowers, garlic scapes have a fresh, vibrant flavor that works beautifully in a variety of dishes.
Why You Should Cook with Garlic Scapes
- Seasonal specialty: Garlic scapes are only available for a short time, making them a delicious spring and early summer treat.
- Versatility: Can be eaten raw, sautéed, grilled, pickled, or blended into sauces.
- Nutritional benefits: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, they offer a healthy boost.
- Milder garlic flavor: Perfect for those who love garlic but want a subtler taste in dishes.
- Eco-friendly cooking: Using garlic scapes reduces waste in your garden and encourages seasonal eating.
How to Prepare Garlic Scapes
Before enjoying garlic scapes, a little preparation is needed:
- Wash thoroughly: Rinse under cold water to remove dirt or debris.
- Trim the ends: Cut off the tough root ends and any fibrous tips.
- Chop or leave whole: Depending on your recipe, you can slice them into 1–2 inch pieces, mince, or leave them long for grilling.
Young scapes are tender and easier to use raw, while older, thicker scapes may need slightly longer cooking to soften.
Ways to Enjoy Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into numerous dishes. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy them:
1. Sautéed Garlic Scapes
Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and mild garlic flavor.
How to Prepare:
- Chop garlic scapes into 2–3 inch pieces.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add scapes and sauté for 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Season with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serving Ideas:
- As a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
- Mixed into scrambled eggs or omelets.
- Tossed with roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
Sautéed garlic scapes are quick, simple, and a perfect way to highlight their flavor.
2. Garlic Scape Pesto
Garlic scapes can be blended into a vibrant, flavorful pesto, a great alternative to traditional basil pesto.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped garlic scapes
- 1/2 cup nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Blend garlic scapes, nuts, and cheese in a food processor.
- Slowly add olive oil until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Serving Ideas:
- Toss with pasta or roasted vegetables.
- Spread on toast or sandwiches.
- Use as a dip for fresh vegetables or crackers.
Garlic scape pesto is bright, aromatic, and versatile, adding a seasonal twist to your meals.
3. Grilled or Roasted Garlic Scapes
Grilling or roasting enhances their natural sweetness and gives a smoky flavor.
How to Prepare:
- Toss whole scapes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill over medium heat for 3–5 minutes per side until slightly charred.
- Or roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Serving Ideas:
- As a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables.
- Chopped and added to salads or grain bowls.
- Drizzled with balsamic glaze for a tasty appetizer.
Grilled garlic scapes are tender, slightly sweet, and aromatic, making them a great addition to any meal.
4. Garlic Scape Stir-Fry
Garlic scapes are perfect for quick, flavorful stir-fries.
How to Prepare:
- Cut scapes into 2–3 inch pieces.
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet, add scapes, and stir-fry for 3–5 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, sesame oil, or other seasonings.
- Include other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve over rice or noodles for a quick weeknight meal.
- Combine with tofu, chicken, or shrimp for protein.
The stir-fry method preserves crunch while infusing scapes with complementary flavors.
5. Pickled Garlic Scapes
Pickling garlic scapes extends their shelf life and adds tangy, spicy flavor.
How to Prepare:
- Trim scapes and cut into 2–3 inch pieces.
- Prepare a pickling brine: 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt.
- Boil brine, pour over scapes in a sterilized jar.
- Let cool, then refrigerate for 2–3 days before eating.
Serving Ideas:
- As a snack or side with sandwiches.
- Added to salads for extra crunch and flavor.
- Served alongside cheese or charcuterie boards.
Pickled garlic scapes are tangy, slightly sweet, and full of flavor, perfect for preserving the season’s harvest.
6. Raw in Salads or as Garnish
Young, tender scapes can be eaten raw:
- Slice thinly and add to salads for a mild garlic flavor.
- Chop finely as a garnish for soups, stews, or grain bowls.
- Mix into cream cheese spreads or dips for sandwiches.
Raw scapes retain all their nutrients and provide a fresh, crisp texture to dishes.
Nutritional Benefits of Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are a nutrient-dense, low-calorie food:
- Vitamins A and C: Supports immunity and vision.
- Antioxidants: Protects cells from oxidative stress.
- Fiber: Promotes digestive health.
- Allyl sulfides: Compounds also found in garlic that support heart health and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Eating garlic scapes is not just tasty — it’s good for your body and overall wellness.
Tips for Buying or Harvesting Garlic Scapes
- Freshness matters: Look for firm, bright green scapes with no yellowing or wilting.
- Store properly: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Wrap loosely in a damp paper towel or store in a perforated bag.
- Timing: If growing your own garlic, harvest scapes before the garlic bulbs mature to ensure tender stems.
- Use promptly: For best flavor, use within a few days of harvesting.
Final Thoughts
Garlic scapes are a seasonal treasure — flavorful, versatile, and packed with nutrients. Whether you sauté them, blend them into pesto, grill them, stir-fry, pickle, or eat raw, garlic scapes bring a fresh and aromatic touch to your meals.
By learning how to enjoy garlic scapes, you can:
- Make the most of your garden harvest.
- Add unique flavors to everyday dishes.
- Benefit from nutritional, heart-healthy compounds.
- Reduce waste by using the entire garlic plant.
So next time you see those curly green stalks at the market or in your garden, don’t hesitate — grab them, cook them, and savor their delicious, mild garlic flavor. Garlic scapes are a seasonal delight that every home cook should explore!