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Easy Garlic Scape Olive Oil: Best Homemade Infusion

garlic scape infused olive oil - featured image

This easy garlic scape infused olive oil is a simple, two-ingredient recipe that captures the fresh, grassy flavor of spring garlic scapes. Perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables, pasta, or bread, it’s a versatile kitchen staple that makes everything taste better.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup garlic scapes, chopped
  • 2 cups extra virgin olive oil
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme
  • Optional: strip of lemon zest
  • Optional: cracked black peppercorn

Instructions

  1. Rinse garlic scapes under cool water and pat dry thoroughly. Trim off woody ends and any brown or wilted tips. Chop into roughly 1-inch pieces to yield about 1 cup.
  2. Place chopped scapes in a small saucepan and pour 2 cups of olive oil over them, ensuring scapes are fully submerged. Stir gently to distribute.
  3. Heat saucepan over the lowest possible heat setting for 5-7 minutes, swirling occasionally. Tiny bubbles should form around scapes, but oil should never simmer. If bubbling occurs, remove from heat immediately.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Carefully pour oil and scapes into a clean glass jar, ensuring all scapes are submerged. Seal tightly and let come to room temperature completely.
  5. Place sealed jar in a cool, dark place (like a pantry) for at least 5 days, preferably 7 days. Gently swirl every day or two to redistribute scapes.
  6. After infusion, strain oil through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth-lined strainer into a clean bowl or storage bottle. Discard spent garlic scapes.
  7. Transfer strained oil to a clean, dry bottle or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Optionally add fresh herbs or spices for visual appeal, but refrigerate if adding fresh ingredients.

Notes

Don’t rush the heating process—low and slow is key to avoid bitterness. Patience with infusion time is non-negotiable; day 7 oil is transformative. Store in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. For warm climates, refrigerate; oil will thicken and turn cloudy but return to liquid at room temperature. Properly stored, oil lasts 2-3 weeks at room temperature or up to 2 months refrigerated. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic scape olive oil, homemade infused oil, garlic scape recipe, easy infused oil, seasonal condiment