Garlic Scapes

If you go to the farmers market tomorrow, be sure to pick up some garlic scapes. These are the would-be flower stem produced by a garlic plant. Growers cut them off to encourage the plant to focus more on developing the bulb that will eventually be mature garlic. They are bright green and have a delightful curlicue shape. Like other parts of a spring garlic plant, their garlic flavor is relatively mild.

You can use scapes to make a pesto as you would with green garlic. Throw in some basil, parsley or mint if you like.

Or chop them up and toss into scrambled eggs, quiche or a frittata. Or throw them in with rice you are cooking. Dice and add to homemade tomato sauce. Put them on pizza with some basil and goat cheese. Include them in a stir fry. There are many possibilities, all delicious.