06/11/2026
Spring is time for Garlic Scapes.
For those who know, they are a delicacy available for only a short time.
But I am often asked what they are and how to use them for those not familiar.
Garlic scapes are the tender, curly shoots of hardneck garlic bulbs. They offer a milder, sweeter garlic flavor than regular cloves.
You can eat the slim green stalk and the bud-like structure of garlic scapes!
Cooked: Garlic scapes can be sautéed, stir-fried, or grilled, much like asparagus or green beans. They can be used as a flavorful addition to stir-fries, pasta dishes, omelets, and soups.
Pesto: Garlic scape pesto is a popular way to utilize this ingredient. It is made by blending garlic scapes with herbs, nuts (such as pine nuts or almonds), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. The resulting pesto can be used as a spread, sauce, or dressing.
Garnish: The vibrant green color and unique shape of garlic scapes make them a visually appealing garnish for various dishes. They can be finely chopped and sprinkled over lettuce salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled rotisserie chicken.
Or do an internet search for other inventive recipes.
