Garlic scapes are weird squirrelly green stalks that grow from the garlic bulb at this time of year. The stalk often includes a bud, which would flower if left on the bulb. Scapes are usually removed and discarded by farmers to allow the garlic plant to channel its energy into the bulb.
Garlic scapes taste like a cross between garlic and chives. They can be eaten raw or cooked and added to many dishes. They can be tough (especially the bulb, which can be discarded), so best served thinly sliced as a garnish, or pureed for use in pesto, sauces, or soups, or added to salad dressing, butter, or pickles…mmm.
Garlic scapes can also be cooked. Toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until the outside has a nice char and the inside is soft (about ten minutes). Serve it hot off the grill topped with parmesan. You can also saute or stir-fry garlic scapes as you would green beans. Snap them into pieces and toss them in oil over medium-high heat for four to five minutes. Sauteed garlic scapes can also be added to quiche or omelettes.
Our local garlic grower, Farmer Bruce, has brought in a load of garlic scapes and is giving them away for free! Come on in and grab some today – you are doing your part to ensure he has a robust garlic harvest this season.
