This garlic scape butter is a simple way to add a burst of flavor to all your dishes! Made with fresh garlic scapes, creamy butter, and a pinch of salt, it’s delicious on veggies, bread, or pasta.
I love spreading it on warm bread for an easy treat. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so you can enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss. Who can resist a little extra flavor? 🧄🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: The recipe calls for unsalted butter to control the salt levels. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using a plant-based butter substitute. It still brings richness without dairy!
Garlic Scapes: The main flavor here! If you can’t find garlic scapes, you could use roasted garlic or minced regular garlic. Just remember, regular garlic is stronger, so adjust the quantity as needed.
Salt: This enhances the flavors. If you’re watching your sodium intake, use salt substitutes, or feel free to adjust it based on your taste preference.
Lemon Juice/Zest: This adds a fresh brightness. If you don’t have lemon, a splash of vinegar or a little lime juice could work. It’s all about balancing flavors!
How Do You Make Sure the Butter Blends Well?
Mixing the butter and garlic scapes properly is key for a good flavor throughout. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature; this makes blending easier.
- Use a fork or spatula to mash and mix the garlic scapes into the butter until evenly distributed.
- For a smoother consistency, you can use a food processor to combine everything quickly.
Once your mixture is ready, rolling it tightly in parchment paper helps shape it and allows easy slicing later. Chill it long enough for the flavors to meld, but don’t skip this step; it really makes a difference!
Garlic Scape Butter Recipe for Easy Flavor Boost
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 garlic scapes, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice or zest for brightness
- Optional: Freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. The chilling time is essential for the flavors to blend and the butter to firm up. In just over an hour, you’ll have delicious garlic scape butter ready to enhance your meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Scapes:
Start by washing the garlic scapes (those green stalks with a mild garlic flavor!) under cool water. Finely chop them into small pieces—this helps release their wonderful flavor into the butter.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and the chopped garlic scapes. Add in the salt, and if you’re using it, the lemon juice or zest along with black pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until well incorporated and creamy. It should smell amazing!
3. Shape and Chill:
Now it’s time to shape your garlic scape butter! Spoon the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll it into a log shape, making sure to pack it tightly. Twist the ends closed like a candy wrapper. This helps keep its shape! Refrigerate the roll for at least 1 hour.
4. Slice and Serve:
When the butter is firm, remove it from the fridge, unwrap, and slice it into rounds. Enjoy your homemade garlic scape butter spread on warm bread, melted over roasted veggies, with grilled meats, or tossed in pasta for a simple flavor boost!
5. Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftover butter (though I’m sure you won’t!), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Or, to keep it longer, pop it in the freezer. Just slice off what you need when you’re ready to use it!
FAQ About Garlic Scape Butter
Can I Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter?
While the recipe is designed for butter, you can make a garlic scape oil by substituting olive oil for butter. Keep in mind that the texture will be different, and it won’t hold its shape like butter but will still have great flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make garlic scape butter vegan, simply replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Adjust the salt to taste, and enjoy a deliciously creamy vegan spread!
What Can I Use Garlic Scape Butter On?
This flavorful butter is versatile! Spread it on warm bread, melt it over grilled vegetables, drizzle it on pasta, or use it to enhance meats while cooking. The options are endless!
How to Store Leftover Garlic Scape Butter?
Store any leftover garlic scape butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. Just slice off what you need when you’re ready to enjoy it!
