Garlic scapes, those elegant and curly green stalks that emerge from garlic bulbs, are a delightful and often overlooked seasonal ingredient. Bursting with flavor and versatility, these slender shoots offer a unique blend of mild garlic taste and delicate herbaceousness. Grilling garlic scapes takes their flavor to a whole new level, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a smoky char. In this post, we will explore a simple yet tantalizing recipe that will showcase the delectable qualities of grilled garlic scapes.
Ingredients:
To prepare this grilled garlic scapes recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 bunch of garlic scapes (approximately 8-10 scapes)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Meanwhile, trim off the tough ends of the garlic scapes and discard any wilted or discolored portions. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
-
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, creating a marinade for the scapes.
-
Place the garlic scapes in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently to ensure all the scapes are coated evenly. Allow them to marinate for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
-
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated garlic scapes directly on the grates. Grill them for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they become slightly charred and tender. Be mindful not to overcook them, as they can become overly soft.
-
Once the garlic scapes are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the scapes for an extra burst of flavor.
-
Grilled garlic scapes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a side to complement various meals. Serve them as an appetizer, toss them into salads, or incorporate them into pasta dishes for an added depth of flavor.
Conclusion:
Grilled garlic scapes are a true culinary delight, transforming this humble ingredient into something extraordinary. The smoky char from the grill beautifully accentuates the scapes' natural sweetness while preserving their delightful crunch. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe allows the unique flavors of garlic scapes to shine through. So, the next time you stumble upon these enchanting curly stalks at your local market or in your garden, fire up the grill and treat yourself to a delicious and memorable experience with grilled garlic scapes.