When it comes to cooking with garlic, most people tend to focus on the bulb itself. But what about those curly green shoots that grow from the top of the garlic plant? Garlic scapes are a hidden gem in the culinary world, offering a milder flavor and a delightful crunch that can elevate a wide range of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and unique recipes that showcase the versatility of garlic scapes. From savory pasta sauces to tangy salad dressings, these flavorful ingredients will add a new dimension to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, get ready to discover the many uses of garlic scapes in the kitchen.
Garlic Scape Pesto Pasta
As the weather warms up, take advantage of the season’s bounty by using garlic scapes in this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish. Garlic scape pesto adds a pungent and aromatic twist to classic pesto, making it a perfect addition to your springtime menu.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup garlic scapes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor, blend garlic scapes, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and salt until well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top until smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta and pesto sauce. Toss to coat.
5. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Garlic Scapes with Lemon Zest
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the pungency of garlic scapes with the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound garlic scapes, cleaned and trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto the garlic scapes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the garlic scapes for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach desired level of char and tenderness.
6. Remove from grill and squeeze with lemon juice.
7. Sprinkle with lemon zest (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Garlic Scape Soup
Transform your garden’s scapes into a rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe showcases the subtle sweetness of garlic scapes, paired with the velvety texture of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups garlic scapes (white or green), chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
3. Add chopped scapes, flour, and chicken broth. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Garlic Scape and Goat Cheese Tart
A flavorful and elegant tart that showcases the simplicity of garlic scapes and the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a springtime dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup garlic scapes, chopped
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped garlic scapes and crumbled goat cheese.
4. Spread the garlic-scape mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Place tart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Scape Butter for Bread
Elevate your bread game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that highlights the sweetness of garlic scapes. Perfect as a spread, topping, or dip, this butter is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 4-6 garlic scapes, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic scapes.
2. Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply take it out of the fridge when ready to use.
This Garlic Scape Butter is a delicious addition to any bread, from crusty baguettes to hearty sourdough. Enjoy!
Garlic Scape Stir-Fry with Shrimp
A flavorful and quick stir-fry that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the pungency of garlic scapes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4-6 garlic scapes, sliced into thin rings
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic scapes to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pickled Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes add a unique flavor and texture to many dishes. This simple pickling recipe preserves their delicate taste and aroma, making them perfect for snacking or adding to meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound garlic scapes
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the garlic scapes and remove any woody stems.
2. In a large bowl, combine the garlic scapes, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
3. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. After 24 hours, refrigerate the pickled garlic scapes for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: None (pickling time: 24 hours + 2 weeks)
Roasted Garlic Scape Hummus
Elevate your dip game with this creamy and flavorful Roasted Garlic Scape Hummus, perfect for snacking or as a accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup roasted garlic scapes (see note), peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other garnishes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, roasted garlic scapes, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil and water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with paprika, parsley, or other herbs of your choice.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Garlic Scape and Potato Frittata
This recipe combines the flavorful pungency of garlic scapes with the comforting warmth of potatoes, all wrapped up in a fluffy frittata. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 3-4 garlic scapes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar or parmesan cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced potatoes and cook until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add chopped garlic scapes and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the potato-garlic mixture in the skillet.
7. Cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is fully cooked.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic Scape Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentinean-inspired sauce is a flavorful and herby condiment perfect for grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip. With its tangy garlic flavor, it’s sure to elevate your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, oregano, and garlic. Process until well combined.
2. Add red wine vinegar and pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This sauce is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Garlic Scape and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the pungency of garlic scapes with the earthiness of mushrooms, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With its comforting flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3-4 garlic scapes, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic scapes and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add mushrooms and butter. Cook until mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Garlic Scape Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella
Garlic Scape Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella Recipe
This simple yet flavorful pizza recipe combines the pungency of garlic scapes, the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, and the crunch of toasted breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 3-4 garlic scapes, thinly sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the olive oil over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the garlic scapes on top of the oil, slightly overlapping each other.
5. Place the fresh mozzarella slices on top of the garlic scapes.
6. Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the pizza.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Scape and White Bean Dip
This creamy dip is a perfect blend of flavors, combining the pungency of garlic scapes with the comforting warmth of white beans. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 4-6 garlic scapes, chopped)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cannellini beans, garlic (or garlic scapes), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides of the blender as needed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Garlic Scape Compound Butter for Steak
This simple yet flavorful compound butter is the perfect accompaniment to a perfectly grilled steak. The subtle pungency of garlic scapes adds depth and richness to the dish, making it a must-try for any steak lover.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 4-6 garlic scapes, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, cream together the softened butter and minced garlic scapes until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Wrap the compound butter in plastic wrap or wax paper, forming a log shape.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
Garlic Scape and Bacon Quiche
This quiche combines the pungency of garlic scapes with the smokiness of bacon, perfect for a brunch or breakfast gathering. The flaky crust and creamy filling make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 3 garlic scapes, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle cheese, bacon, and garlic scapes evenly over the pastry.
4. Pour egg mixture over the filling.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and center is set.
6. Let quiche cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Scape Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
A flavorful and aromatic vinaigrette perfect for elevating your favorite greens or vegetables, this Garlic Scape Vinaigrette is a must-try!
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 2-3 garlic scapes, chopped)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine garlic (or garlic scapes), salt, and pepper.
2. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until well combined.
3. Add apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
This vinaigrette is best served chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Enjoy!
Garlic Scape and Parmesan Focaccia
A flavorful twist on traditional focaccia, this recipe incorporates the sweet and savory flavors of garlic scapes and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side or used to make sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1-2 garlic scapes, chopped)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dough, followed by chopped parsley if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic Scape and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the pungency of garlic scapes with the savory goodness of sausage and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 3 cloves garlic scapes, finely chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped garlic scapes and onion; cook 1 minute.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Scape and Lemon Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the pungency of garlic scapes, brightness of lemon zest, and tender juiciness.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves garlic scapes, thinly sliced
– 1 lemon, zested
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic scapes, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and place in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Scape and Herb Compound Butter
Elevate your culinary game with this aromatic compound butter, perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or meats. This recipe combines the pungency of garlic scapes with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3-4 garlic scapes, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the softened butter with a fork until light and fluffy.
2. Add the minced garlic scapes, parsley, and chives to the butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, forming a log shape. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– None required! This compound butter is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 20 deliciously unique garlic scape recipes! From savory pastas and stir-fries to creamy soups and roasted hummus, there’s something for every taste bud. Try Garlic Scape Pesto Pasta or Grilled Garlic Scapes with Lemon Zest for a flavorful twist on classic dishes. Or, add some zest to your brunch with Garlic Scape and Goat Cheese Tart or Garlic Scape and Potato Frittata. With so many creative ideas, you’ll never look at garlic scapes the same way again!