When to Harvest Garlic Scapes: A Comprehensive Guide

When to harvest garlic scapes is a crucial question for any garlic enthusiast. These curly green shoots, emerging from hardneck garlic varieties, are not only a sign of healthy growth but also a delicious culinary ingredient. In this article, we'll delve into the ins and outs of garlic scapes, from identifying them in your garden to reaping their flavorful benefits in the kitchen.

What are Garlic Scapes and How to Identify Them

Garlic scapes are the curly, green shoots that emerge from hardneck garlic plants as they mature. They typically appear in late spring or early summer, twisting and turning gracefully above the garlic plants. To identify them, look for long, slender stems with a distinctive curl at the top, often resembling a pig's tail.

When to Harvest Garlic Scapes

The optimal time to harvest garlic scapes is when they are young and tender, usually around late spring or early summer. To harvest them, simply grasp the scape near the base and gently twist it off the plant. Be careful not to damage the surrounding foliage or bulbs in the process.

Why You Should Harvest Them

Harvesting garlic scapes not only provides you with a delicious culinary ingredient but also promotes the health and vigor of your garlic plants. By removing the scapes, you redirect the plant's energy toward bulb development, resulting in larger and more flavorful garlic bulbs at harvest time.

Common Recipe Ideas for Garlic Scapes

Garlic scapes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to stir-fries and pesto. Some popular recipe ideas include:

• Garlic scape pesto

• Garlic scape soup

• Grilled garlic scapes

• Garlic scape hummus

How to Store Garlic Scapes

To prolong the freshness of garlic scapes, trim the ends and place them in a glass of water, similar to fresh flowers. Store them in the refrigerator, where they will stay crisp and flavorful for up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can chop or puree the scapes and freeze them for longer-term storage.

FAQs

What are Garlic Scapes?

Garlic scapes are the curly, green shoots that emerge from hardneck garlic plants as they mature. They are edible and prized for their mild garlic flavor.

What to Do with Garlic Scapes?

Garlic scapes can be used in a variety of culinary applications, including pesto, soups, salads, stir-fries, and grilled dishes. Think of them like chives, or another culinary herb that can be used in various cuisines.

How to Cook Garlic Scapes?

Garlic scapes can be cooked in a multitude of ways, including grilling, sautéing, roasting, and boiling. Experiment with different cooking methods to find your favorite or find a recipe here on our blog.

How to Store Garlic Scapes?

To store garlic scapes, trim the ends and place them in a glass of water in the refrigerator. Alternatively, chop or puree the scapes and freeze them for longer-term storage.

What Part of Garlic Scapes Do You Eat?

The entire garlic scape is edible, from the tender stem to the curling tip. Simply trim off any tough or woody ends before cooking.