Other names: garlic stemps, garlic spears, garlic tops
Garlic scapes are the young unfurled seedpods that form on hard neck garlic plants in June. When in season they are sold through farmer's markets and a few specialty stores. This delicious stalk has a taste that is milder than mature garlic. According to the growers at Marquita Farms, once sauteed the scapes have a light garlic flavor with the texture of asparagus. The scapes are used in everything from soups to salads to garnishes and stir-fries. Garlic scapes are traditionally used in Southern, Eastern European, and Korean cuisine because of it's subtle garlic flavor, tender-crisp texture, and nutritional potency.