Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

When the early summer garden starts to overflow with garlic scapes, there is no better way to celebrate than by firing up the grill. Garlic scapes are the curly, vibrant green stalks that grow from garlic bulbs, and they offer a mellow, sweet garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood. These Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers are a visually stunning and delicious way to enjoy this short-lived seasonal delicacy.

Shrimp and garlic are a classic duo, but using the scapes instead of traditional cloves adds a unique crunch and a pop of color. This recipe is incredibly fast to put together, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated appetizer for your next backyard gathering. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the scapes and gives the shrimp a perfect charred finish.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 215 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg

Why Make This Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

This recipe is a must-try because it highlights one of the garden’s most fleeting treasures. Garlic scapes are only available for a few weeks each year, and grilling them brings out a smoky sweetness that you simply cannot get from raw garlic. It is a fantastic way to impress your guests with an ingredient they might not see every day.

Beyond the flavor, this dish is incredibly healthy and light. It is packed with lean protein and heart-healthy fats from the olive oil. Because it cooks in under ten minutes, it keeps your kitchen cool during the hot summer months. Whether you are a seasoned griller or a beginner, the simplicity of these skewers ensures a successful and tasty result every time.

How to Make Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

Creating these skewers is a fun and interactive process that involves threading fresh shrimp and curly scapes onto sticks for a quick sear over an open flame.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch garlic scapes (about 8-10 scapes), cut into 4-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers and Grill

If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, roughly 400°F (200°C). Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them to prevent the shrimp from sticking.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp and Scapes

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the cleaned shrimp and the cut garlic scapes to the bowl. Toss everything gently until the shrimp and scapes are evenly coated with the marinade. Let them sit for about 5 to 10 minutes while the grill finishes heating.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the ingredients onto the skewers, alternating between a piece of garlic scape and a shrimp. For the scapes, it is best to pierce them through the center of their curve so they stay secure. Ensure the shrimp are pierced through both the tail and the head end so they do not spin when you flip the skewers.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side. Use tongs to carefully flip the skewers over and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The shrimp should be opaque and pink, and the garlic scapes should have light char marks and be slightly tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top while they are still hot to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately while warm.

How to Serve Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

These skewers are very versatile. For a complete meal, serve them over a bed of fluffy quinoa, jasmine rice, or a light lemon herb couscous. They also go exceptionally well with a fresh summer salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.

If you are serving these as an appetizer, place them on a platter with a side of garlic aioli or a spicy remoulade for dipping. They are easy to grab and eat, making them perfect for cocktail parties or casual outdoor hangs.

How to Store Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

If you have leftovers, remove the shrimp and scapes from the skewers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp tough.

Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

To get the best results, always use large or jumbo shrimp. Smaller shrimp cook too quickly and may dry out before the garlic scapes get those beautiful char marks. If your garlic scapes are particularly thick or woody, you can blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute before skewering to ensure they are tender after grilling.

Always keep a close eye on the grill. Shrimp transition from perfectly cooked to overdone in a matter of seconds. As soon as they form a “C” shape and lose their translucency, they are ready to be taken off the heat.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this recipe by adding other seasonal vegetables to the skewers. Cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or bell pepper chunks work wonderfully. For a different flavor profile, swap the lemon juice for lime juice and add a teaspoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet and tangy glaze.

If you want more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a finely minced jalapeño to the marinade. For a herb-forward version, toss in some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do garlic scapes taste like?

Garlic scapes have a mild garlic flavor that is much less pungent than the bulbs. When grilled, they become slightly sweet and take on a texture similar to thin asparagus.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before marinating so the oil and seasonings stick properly.

Q: Can I cook these in the oven if I don’t have a grill?

Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake them in a 400°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: Do I need to peel the garlic scapes?

No, you do not need to peel them. Simply trim off the very tip of the flowery bulb (the pointed end) if it looks too dry, and cut the rest of the green stalk into pieces.

Q: How do I know if the garlic scapes are fresh?

Look for scapes that are bright green and firm. If they feel limp or have turned yellow, they are past their prime and may be too tough to eat.

Conclusion

Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers are the essence of summer on a stick. They are quick, healthy, and bursting with the fresh flavors of the season. By combining the snap of the scapes with the succulent grilled shrimp, you create a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Give this recipe a try during the short scape season, and it is sure to become a yearly favorite!

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