Strawberry and Garlic-scape Salsa

This salsa has become a hit at the Inglewood Farmers’ Market during strawberry season. The timing corresponds with the arrival of garlic scapes, the green curly stalks of garlic plants that farmers cut off so the plant can concentrate on producing sizeable garlic bulbs. Strawberries take centre stage in this salsa, although all the flavours complement each other wonderfully. Serve this salsa with grilled chicken or fish, or tortilla chips and cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled, chopped
• 4 garlic scapes, finely chopped, flower buds removed
• 1/2 medium red onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves or mint, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Wash and chop strawberries, garlic scapes and onion, and place in a mixing bowl.
2. Combine orange juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, jalapeno pepper, salt and pepper.
3. Pour over strawberries.
4. Makes 1½ cups.