Garlic Scapes

Well, this is the time of the year when we begin to harvest garlic scapes, the problem is that the majority of folks aren't quite sure what to do with them, so we'll help you out!  Here are some ideas, if you have others, please feel free to add a comment.  ENJOY!!!

Garlic scape pesto

 1 pound garlic scapes

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Olive oil (about 1/2 to 1 cup)

Pine nuts if available

 Chop the garlic scapes into 3 inch lengths. Put it int he food processor and process until pureed. Add the parmesan and pine nuts and process until smooth. Slowly add the olive oil as the food processor runs and continue until all the oil is combined into the garlic. Store in an air-tight jar in the refrigerator.

Fried Scapes (from dakotagarlic.com)

Cut scapes to green bean size and saute them in butter and salt for six to eight minutes. During the last minute of cooking add about 1 tsp. of balsamic vinegar.

Pickled Garlic Scapes

I saw several recipes for pickled garlic scapes on the internet. They are all similar to this one, with a few adding a variety of herbs for seasoning.

 1 pound or more of scapes, whole

 3 cups vinegar

 5 cups water

 ¼ cup kosher salt

 1 tbsp curry powder in each quart jar (if desired)

 other herbs to taste: basil & oregano are very good plus chopped cayenne or jalapeno pepper to taste

Boil the water, vinegar & salt solution. Pack hot jars with whole scapes, then curry powder, and then the brine. Put on lids, place in a hot water canner and boil for 45 minutes. Leave at least 2 weeks before serving to get best flavor. Makes 3 quarts

Green Bean Substitute

AND believe it or not, many sources say the best thing to do with garlic scapes is to substitute them for anything you would use a green bean for!