When it comes to garlic scapes, there are so many delicious and creative ways to enjoy them. These curly green shoots are not only visually appealing but also pack a punch of flavor. Here are some of the best things you can do with garlic scapes:
1. Stir-Fries: Cut the garlic scapes into small coin-like pieces and add them to a hot pan with some oil. Stir-fry them along with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and seasonings for a quick and flavorful meal. The garlic scapes will add a mild garlic flavor with a hint of sweetness.
2. Salad Dressings: Finely dice the garlic scapes and mix them into a vinaigrette or green goddess dressing. The vibrant green color and unique flavor of the scapes will instantly upgrade your salads. The dressing will have a fresh and zesty taste, perfect for drizzling over your greens.
3. Grilling: For a charred and smoky flavor, blister whole garlic scapes on the grill. Simply brush them with some oil and grill them until lightly charred. This makes for a fantastic snack or side dish to serve at your next barbecue. The heat of the grill will mellow out the pungency of the scapes, resulting in a deliciously savory treat.
4. Pesto: Garlic scape pesto is a wonderful way to utilize these flavorful shoots. Blend the garlic scapes with some fresh herbs, nuts (such as pine nuts or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Use this pesto as a spread on sandwiches, a sauce for pasta, or a dip for vegetables.
5. Pickling: Pickling garlic scapes is a great way to preserve their unique flavor. Trim the scapes to fit into jars and pack them tightly. Prepare a brine using vinegar, water, salt, and sugar, and pour it over the scapes. Let them sit for a few days or weeks to develop their tangy, pickled taste. These pickled scapes make a delightful addition to charcuterie boards or sandwiches.
6. Sautéed Side Dish: Heat some oil or butter in a pan and sauté the garlic scapes until they are tender-crisp. Season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. This simple preparation allows the natural flavors of the scapes to shine. Serve them as a side dish alongside your main course.
7. Soup or Stock: Garlic scapes can be added to soups or stocks for an extra layer of flavor. Chop them into small pieces and simmer them along with other vegetables and aromatics. They will infuse your homemade soup or stock with a mild garlic taste, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
8. Fermentation: If you enjoy experimenting with fermentation, garlic scapes can be a unique addition to your projects. Fermenting the scapes creates a tangy and slightly acidic flavor. Chop the scapes into manageable lengths, pack them into a jar, and cover them with a brine of salt and water. Let them ferment for a few days to develop their unique taste. These fermented scapes can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a condiment.
As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have personally tried and enjoyed these various ways of using garlic scapes. Each method brings out different aspects of their flavor profile, allowing you to explore their versatility in the kitchen. So go ahead and get creative with these delightful garlic scapes, and enjoy the delicious results!
