A Curly Seasonal Treat - Garlic Scapes

Its mid July, and here, on our little urban homestead, that means an abundance of one of my favorite veggies, garlic scapes!. Garlic scapes are the flowering head of the garlic plant. They're cut off so the plants can put their extra growing energy into bigger bulbs rather then flowers. But don't discard them! they taste amazing and are a power house for your health. The taste and texture remind me of asparagus, but with a mild garlic flavor.
Health Benefits:
Garlic scapes have all the same amazing health benefits as the bulbs. They also have a few extra qualities such as:
 Diallyl sulfides are found in good concentration within the stalks. These sulfides are directly linked to apoptosis, the programed cell death of cancerous cells, Helping to prevent the spread of those cells
They are also diuretic,  great for flushing out the liver and kidneys, detoxifying the body
Both Allicin and allium are present in the scapes, preventing the breakdown of bone tissue. helping to prevent osteoporosis.
They are also rich in antioxidants, vitamins such as A, C, and B6, and a good source of calcium, mananese, and selenium.With so much to love, its a shame they're not available for more then a few weeks a year.

Garlic scapes are a very versatile vegetable. you can eat them raw, throw them in your favorite pesto recipe, or my favorite, grill them

Grilled Garlic Scapes:
Freshly harvested scapes - I like to cook a small handful per person
2 tbs olive oil
2 tbs red wine (or red wine vinegar)
salt and pepper to taste

Put scapes in a bowl, add the oil, wine, salt and pepper. stir well to coat.
let sit half an hour or so (prep the rest of your meal) 

Grill them until they're a bright green in color, and they go a little limp (about 5 min.)

And the finished product is a super healthy, quick and easy side dish, to accompany any meal!