This simple garlic scapes butter is a tasty way to use fresh scapes! Blending them with creamy butter creates a spread that’s full of flavor and super easy to make.
You can slather this butter on bread, veggies, or even grilled meats. Honestly, once you try it, you might be tempted to put it on everything—yes, even popcorn! 🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic Scapes: These tender green stems add a mild garlic flavor. If you can’t find them, consider using fresh chives or green onions for a similar taste, though it will be slightly different.
Unsalted Butter: I always use unsalted butter to control the salt level better. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter, keeping in mind the flavor may vary.
Salt: Adjust the salt based on your preference. You can always add more, but it’s tough to take it out, so start with less!
Lemon Juice: This is optional but recommended for brightness. You can swap it with lime juice or skip it if you prefer a richer flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Garlic Scapes Butter Comes Together Smoothly?
The key to a smooth garlic scapes butter lies in properly softening the butter and mixing well. Here’s how:
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature; this makes mixing easier.
- Chop garlic scapes very finely. This helps distribute the flavors throughout the butter.
- Mix thoroughly, so every bite has flavor! I often use a fork for mixing, as it helps break down the butter and incorporate the scapes nicely.
When rolling the butter in parchment paper, ensure it’s tight so that it holds its shape when chilling. This makes it easier to slice later!
Easy Garlic Scapes Butter
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup garlic scapes, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice for brightness
- Optional: Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes to prepare the garlic scapes butter. After mixing, you should chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. So, set aside a total of about 1 hour and 10 minutes to enjoy your homemade butter!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Scapes:
Start by washing the garlic scapes under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, finely chop the scapes into small pieces—this helps to release their lovely flavor.
2. Mix the Butter:
In a medium bowl, take the softened unsalted butter and add in the chopped garlic scapes. It’s important that the butter is softened so that it mixes easily. If it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a bit.
3. Season Your Butter:
Add the salt and, if you choose to use it, the lemon juice and a pinch of black pepper. The lemon juice adds a nice brightness, but you can leave it out if you prefer a more rich flavor.
4. Blend It All Together:
Using a fork or a spatula, mix everything together really well. You want to ensure that the garlic scapes are evenly distributed throughout the butter so each slice is full of flavor!
5. Shape the Butter:
Now, take the garlic butter mixture and put it onto a piece of parchment paper. Roll it up tightly into a log shape, and twist the ends to seal it closed.
6. Chill the Butter:
Place the rolled butter into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This will let it firm up nicely, making it easier to slice.
7. Enjoy Your Garlic Scapes Butter:
Once it’s set, slice the butter into rounds and serve it on warm bread, steamed vegetables, grilled meats, or use it as a finishing touch on your favorite dishes. Enjoy this flavorful addition to your meals!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Scapes Butter
Can I Use Frozen Garlic Scapes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen garlic scapes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before chopping and mixing with the butter. You can speed up thawing by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Should I Store Leftover Garlic Scapes Butter?
Store any leftover garlic scapes butter in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in parchment paper in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just cut it into slices before freezing for easy use later on!
Can I Substitute Regular Garlic for Garlic Scapes?
While garlic scapes provide a milder flavor, you can use regular garlic cloves as a substitute. About 2-3 cloves finely minced will work. However, start with less and taste as you go, since raw garlic can be much stronger in flavor! Consider roasting the garlic first for a sweeter, milder option.
What’s the Best Way to Use Garlic Scapes Butter?
This butter is incredibly versatile! Use it to top warm bread, add flavor to grilled vegetables, melt it over meats, or stir it into pasta for a quick flavor boost. You can also use it as a dipping butter for seafood or simply spread it on crackers for a delightful snack!
