Garlic Scape Chimichurri

Introduction

Garlic lovers, rejoice!

Garlic Scape Chimichurri is a fresh, zingy, and versatile sauce that can elevate your meals to a whole new level of flavor. Whether spread on grilled meats, tossed with roasted vegetables, or even used as a flavorful dip, this unique twist on traditional chimichurri is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Made with garlic scapes—those tender, green shoots that grow from garlic bulbs—this recipe provides a delightful way to incorporate vibrant, seasonal ingredients into your cooking.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Simple, fresh goodness

The Garlic Scape Chimichurri highlights the essence of fresh flavors with a handful of approachable ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
• Garlic scapes – 1 cup chopped, tender and fresh
• Fresh parsley – 1 cup, roughly chopped leaves only
• White wine vinegar – 2 tablespoons for that tangy kick
• Olive oil – 1/2 cup to achieve the smooth sauce consistency
• Salt – 1 teaspoon to bring out the flavors
• Red pepper flakes – 1/2 teaspoon for a bit of heat, optional

Prep Time

Get everything ready quickly

The preparation for Garlic Scape Chimichurri is wonderfully straightforward. With just a few chops and a blend, you’ll be ready to enjoy this flavorful sauce. The estimated prep time is approximately 5 minutes. It’s a wonderful option if you’re looking for something quick yet satisfying.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

A no-cook recipe for simplicity

One of the best features of this recipe is that there’s no cooking involved! The process simply involves blending the fresh ingredients into a harmonious sauce. That means 0 minutes of cook time. The total time of the recipe is about 5 minutes. This recipe yields about 6 to 8 servings, perfect for enhancing multiple dishes or meals.

Conclusion

Adding a fresh touch to your meals

The beauty of Garlic Scape Chimichurri lies in its simplicity and the burst of flavor it adds to your dishes. It’s an easy-to-make, no-cook sauce that highlights the best of seasonal ingredients while offering versatility for various culinary applications. Give this recipe a try to brighten up your meals with a beautiful blend of garlic scapes and fresh herbs. It’s an easy win for flavor enthusiasts and home cooks alike!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Peel and trim your garlic scapes, removing any tough or woody ends. Wash them thoroughly under running water and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Gather all other ingredients and measure them out to ensure easy preparation during the blending process.

Step 2: Chop the garlic scapes

Roughly chop the garlic scapes into smaller pieces to make them easier to process in the blender or food processor.

Step 3: Combine ingredients in the food processor

In the bowl of a food processor, add the chopped garlic scapes, fresh parsley, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, crushed red pepper (optional for some spice), and any other ingredients you are using in the recipe.

Step 4: Blend until smooth

Pulse the food processor for a few seconds at a time to begin breaking down the ingredients. Then let the processor run until the chimichurri reaches your desired consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically.

Step 5: Adjust and taste

Taste the chimichurri and adjust the seasoning if required. Add more salt or vinegar if needed to balance the flavors. If the consistency is too thick, you can drizzle in a little more olive oil while blending.

Step 6: Store the chimichurri

Transfer the garlic scape chimichurri to a clean jar or airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

Note 1: Garlic scape substitution

If garlic scapes are not in season or unavailable, you can substitute them with a mix of green onions and a few garlic cloves to achieve a similar flavor.

Note 2: Consistency preferences

For a chunkier chimichurri, pulse the ingredients less frequently when blending. If you prefer a very smooth sauce, continue blending for longer.

Note 3: Storage time

This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Note 4: Versatile uses

Garlic scape chimichurri works as a topping for grilled meats, a marinade, or even a dip. Experiment to find your favorite way to use it.

Note 5: Adjusting spice levels

The crushed red pepper is optional if you want to add a hint of spice. You can adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance or omit it entirely.
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Cook Techniques

Handling Garlic Scapes

When handling garlic scapes, make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Trim the tough ends and chop them into smaller, manageable pieces for blending.

Blending Ingredients

For the chimichurri, use a high-powered blender or a food processor to achieve the desired consistency. Pulse the ingredients to keep some texture or blend until smooth depending on your preference.

Balancing Flavors

Taste each step of the process to ensure the flavors are balanced. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, vinegar, or olive oil as needed.

Adding Fresh Herbs

Combine the garlic scapes with fresh parsley, cilantro, or any of your favorite herbs to enhance the chimichurri’s flavor.

Storing the Chimichurri

Once made, store your chimichurri in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to freeze it, portion it into smaller containers or an ice cube tray for easier use later.

FAQ

What are garlic scapes?

Garlic scapes are the flower stalks of hardneck garlic plants. They are harvested early to encourage the bulbs to grow larger and have a mild, garlicky flavor.

Can I substitute garlic scapes with regular garlic?

Yes, you can substitute garlic scapes with a combination of fresh garlic and a green herb, though the flavor might be slightly different.

How long does garlic scape chimichurri last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, garlic scape chimichurri can last up to one week. For longer storage, freeze it.

Can I freeze garlic scape chimichurri?

Yes, you can freeze garlic scape chimichurri. Use an ice cube tray or small containers to portion it out for convenient use.

What can I use garlic scape chimichurri for?

Garlic scape chimichurri can be used as a sauce for grilled meats, a topping for vegetables, or a spread for bread.

What if I don’t have parsley or cilantro?

If you don’t have parsley or cilantro, you can replace them with other herbs such as basil, mint, or a mix of greens like spinach or arugula. This will alter the flavor slightly but still work well in chimichurri.

Why does my chimichurri taste too bitter?

The bitterness might come from over-blended olive oil or the herbs. Try using a lighter olive oil and not over-blending the mixture to avoid this.

Conclusion

Garlic scape chimichurri is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate various dishes. Its bright, herbaceous profile combined with a subtle garlicky punch makes it perfect for enhancing everyday meals or adding a gourmet touch to special occasions. The adaptability of this recipe ensures it will become a personal favorite for those who love bold flavors.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Grilled Vegetables with Garlic Scape Chimichurri

Pair garlic scape chimichurri with grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a delicious side dish.

Steak with Garlic Scape Chimichurri

Top a freshly grilled steak with a generous amount of this chimichurri for a robust, flavorful combination.

Garlic Scape Chimichurri Pasta

Toss the chimichurri with freshly cooked pasta, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a quick meal.

Roasted Potatoes with Garlic Scape Chimichurri

Drizzle chimichurri over roasted potatoes for a zesty and vibrant twist.

Garlic Scape Chimichurri as a Dip

Use it as a dipping sauce for crusty bread or fresh vegetables for a light appetizer.

Chicken Thighs with Garlic Scape Chimichurri

Serve roasted or grilled chicken thighs with garlic scape chimichurri for an herby, citrusy finish.

Garlic Scape Chimichurri Pizza

Spread the chimichurri over pizza dough as a sauce alternative and layer with mozzarella cheese and toppings of choice.