Garlic Scapes

Garlic scapes are the stem and flower of a garlic plant. These are typically harvested to make sure that the plant puts its energy into making a garlic bulb instead of a garlic flower, but somewhere along the line people realized that they were an excellent source of garlic flavor. While they do have a flavor that is similar to garlic, it is often described as a “greener” flavor, that has hints of onion.

Garlic scapes can be used as a substitute for garlic in almost any application. They make a wonderful addition to stir fry, soups, and salads. They can be slightly tough and slightly overpowering when raw, but they sauté quickly and become milder and tender. If you’re using them in a salad, make sure to cut small pieces and use sparingly.

If you’re looking for something a bit more complex, scapes can be made into a pesto by simply substituting scapes for basil.

Garlic Scape Pesto

• 1 cup chopped garlic scapes

• 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts

• 1/3 cup grated parmesan

• 1/3 cup canola oil

• 4 tsp. lemon juice

• 1/4 tsp. salt

  Pulse garlic scapes with pine nuts in a food processor until finely chopped. Add parmesan and pulse until just mixed. While mixing, slowly drizzle in oil. Mix until smooth. Add lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper.

  Serve on pasta, pizza, or salad, or store by putting it in a sealed glass jar. Pesto will last up to three days in the fridge.