What are garlic scapes, exactly?
They are the curly green flowering stalks (the stem that would eventually bloom) that grow from hardneck garlic plants in late spring. They are edible, and they are delicious.
Why are scapes cut off?
Growers often cut them so the plant can focus its energy on the garlic bulb. Meanwhile, we get the best bonus vegetable of the season.
What do garlic scapes taste like?
Like mild garlic plus something fresh and snappy. Think garlic, chives, and green beans hanging out together, in a good way.
Can I eat garlic scapes raw?
Yes. Slice them thin for salads, slaws, and dips. They can be a little fibrous when raw, so thin slices are your friend.
How do I prep garlic scapes for pesto?
Rinse, pat dry, then trim off any tough stem ends. If the flower bud is very woody, trim it off. Otherwise, blend it in for extra flavor.
My scapes seem tough. Now what?
Older or larger scapes can be stringier. Chop them smaller and give the processor more time. If you are using a blender, add the olive oil earlier to help everything move, and stop to scrape down the sides.
Can I make this without nuts?
Absolutely. Use pepitas or sunflower seeds, or skip nuts entirely and add a bit more Parmesan to help thicken.
Any swaps for Parmesan?
Yep. Pecorino works great. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast and add a touch more salt and lemon to keep it punchy.
Why did my pesto turn dark?
Oxidation. It still tastes great. To keep it greener, add lemon juice, store with a thin oil layer on top, and keep the jar tightly sealed.
How do I choose good garlic scapes?
Look for bright green, firm scapes that snap easily. Avoid ones that feel limp, very thick, or woody.
