scapes

Garlic scapes are the long slender curly green flower stalks produced by hard neck garlic in late spring to early summer. They're essentially the plants attempt to form a bloom farmers remove them so the plant can focus its energy on building a larger more flavorful bulb. What they look like: Smooth, vibrant, green stalks, naturally curly or looping often forming whimsical spirals. Firm yet tender, with a small unopened flower bud at the tip. Resemble long green beans or scallions but with a more sculptural shape. Flavor a mild sweet garlic taste less pungent than garlic cloves. Fresh, grassy and slightly herbaceous. Crunchy when raw, tender when cooked. How they're used: garlic scapes are wonderfully versatile They can be blended into pesto, sauteed or stir fried, grilled, pickled, chopped into salads, eggs or pastas. Used anywhere you want gentle garlic flavor without the bite. Why they matter: removing scapes helps the garlic bulb grow larger and more robust, and because they're only available for a short window each year, they've become a beloved seasonal treat.