Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the unique, seasonal flavors of the garden. One of the most overlooked treasures of early summer is the garlic scape. These curly, vibrant green shoots from the garlic plant offer a mild, slightly sweet garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with succulent seafood. When you combine them with plump shrimp, you get a light, healthy meal that looks as impressive as it tastes.

These Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers are a fantastic way to celebrate the short window when garlic scapes are available. They are quick to prepare, making them ideal for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend barbecue with friends. The natural crunch of the scapes provides a wonderful texture contrast to the tender shrimp, all finished with a touch of lemon and smoky spices.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 195 kcal
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 420mg

Why Make This Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

This recipe is a must-try because it highlights one of the most unique seasonal ingredients available. Garlic scapes are only around for a few weeks in late spring and early summer, and grilling them mellows their bite, making them incredibly delicious. Unlike whole garlic cloves, scapes won’t burn easily on the grill and stay delightfully crisp-tender.

Beyond the flavor, this dish is incredibly healthy. It is high in lean protein and low in carbohydrates, making it perfect for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying meal. Plus, the vibrant green of the scapes and the pink of the grilled shrimp make for a stunning presentation on the plate that will impress any guest.

How to Make Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

Creating these flavorful skewers is a simple process that involves a quick marinade and just a few minutes on a hot grill. Here is everything you need to get started.

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, based on preference)
8 to 10 fresh garlic scapes, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

If you are using wooden or bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning over the open flame. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Scapes

Rinse the shrimp and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This ensures they sear properly rather than steaming. Trim the tough, flowery ends off the garlic scapes and cut the remaining stalks into uniform 2-inch pieces.

Step 3: Season the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and the cut garlic scapes to the bowl. Toss everything together until the shrimp and scapes are evenly coated in the marinade.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the ingredients onto the skewers, alternating between a piece of shrimp and a piece of garlic scape. Try to pierce the garlic scapes through the center so they stay secure on the grill. Continue until all ingredients are used.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. The shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink, and the garlic scapes should have light char marks but remain crisp.

How to Serve Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

These skewers are best served immediately while they are hot from the grill. Arrange them on a platter with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus. They pair perfectly with a bed of fluffy quinoa, herbed couscous, or a simple garden salad. For a full Mediterranean-style meal, serve them alongside some grilled pita bread and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.

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-low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery. These are also delicious served cold on top of a salad the next day.

Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers

To get the best results, always use the largest shrimp you can find, as they are less likely to overcook while the scapes get their char. Don’t skip the step of patting the shrimp dry; moisture is the enemy of a good sear. If your garlic scapes are very thick, you can blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute before skewering to ensure they are tender, though most fresh scapes will soften beautifully on the grill without this extra step.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste. For a bit of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade. If you want more vegetables, try adding cherry tomatoes or chunks of red bell pepper to the skewers. For a different protein, scallops or chunks of firm white fish like halibut also work wonderfully with the garlic scape flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When are garlic scapes in season?

Garlic scapes are typically available in late spring and early summer, usually during the months of June and July depending on your local climate.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are completely thawed and patted very dry before you begin the marinating process.

Q: What can I use if I can’t find garlic scapes?

If scapes are out of season, you can substitute them with thick green onions or asparagus spears cut into 2-inch pieces. Add a little minced garlic to the marinade to keep that garlicky flavor.

Q: Should I leave the tails on the shrimp?

Leaving the tails on is largely for presentation and provides a “handle” for eating, but you can remove them before skewering if you prefer an easier eating experience.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp cook very quickly. They are finished when they change from translucent grey to an opaque pinkish-white and form a loose “C” shape. If they curl into a tight “O,” they may be overcooked.

Conclusion

Grilled Garlic Scapes Shrimp Skewers are a celebration of seasonal eating at its finest. With minimal effort and just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that is both healthy and bursting with flavor. Whether you are a fan of garlic or just looking for a new way to enjoy grilled shrimp, this recipe is sure to become a summer favorite in your household. Enjoy the grill and the wonderful taste of the season!