Garlic scapes

garlic scapes, originally uploaded by cabanagirl.

Last fall I planted leeks, garlic, shallots, onions and chives. They survived the winter and are getting close to harvest time but what the heck are these curly things growing?

Garlic scapes, originally uploaded by cabanagirl.

Garlic scapes, originally uploaded by cabanagirl.

I was browsing blogs this morning and found a lovely post on Garlic scapes. Wow that's what they are. Now I am excited. Apparently these stalks that grow and curl start the seed process but they rob from the development of the garlic bulbs so it is best to cut them out. Great! Now What? I browsed some more blogs with garlic scapes a subject matter and came up with a great pesto recipe. I now had an unplanned project for the day:

The scapes were cut so then I toasted some almonds and tossed them in the food processor
Garlic scapes, originally uploaded by cabanagirl.

Then I grated 1/3 cup Parmasean cheese
toasted almonds, originally uploaded by cabanagirl.

toast the almonds

I tossed it in the processor too and then added the chopped scapes and 1/2 cup olive oil. I whirred it all up and presto, pesto. It seemed absolutely the perfect thing to do to top in on a fresh piece of bread. Yum.

I understand garlic scapes appear at local Farmers' markets so watch out for them this time of year.

Bon Appetit!
Parmasean cheese, originally uploaded by cabanagirl.

add 1/3 cup Parmasean cheese

It has a fresh spring flavor with a fabulous garlic taste. Here is the recipe from Dorie Greenspan's blog.
garlic scape pesto, originally uploaded by cabanagirl.

A spoonful on a piece of fresh bread, divine