As the warm sunshine brings new life to our gardens, we’re excited to share a treasure trove of creative recipes that highlight one of spring’s most beautiful and versatile flowers: nasturtium. With its bright colors and spicy flavor profile, this edible flower is perfect for adding a pop of color and excitement to your meals. From savory dishes like stuffed mushrooms and pasta sauces to sweet treats like smoothie bowls and sorbet, we’ve gathered 19 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the many uses of nasturtium.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of nasturtium, where you’ll discover how to incorporate its petals, leaves, and seeds into your cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, these recipes are sure to inspire you to try something new and delicious.
Nasturtium and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner party with this unique and flavorful recipe, featuring the sweet and tangy combination of nasturtiums and goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh nasturtium leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and chopped nasturtium leaves.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese-nasturtium mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Nasturtium Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the sweetness of nasturtiums with the heat of spicy peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup nasturtium leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine nasturtium leaves, garlic, roasted red peppers, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the pesto mixture to the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Nasturtium Flower Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Experience the delicate beauty of nasturtium flowers in a crispy and flavorful tempura dish, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup nasturtium flowers (fresh or dried)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and cold water to create a thin batter.
2. Dip each nasturtium flower into the batter, coating it evenly.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry battered nasturtium flowers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger.
– Serve warm tempura flowers with dipping sauce for an added layer of flavor.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, including preparation time.
Creamy Nasturtium Soup with Croutons
A vibrant and creamy soup that showcases the unique flavor of nasturtium, paired with crunchy croutons for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups nasturtium flowers and leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Croutons (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and nasturtium flowers and leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with croutons of your choice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nasturtium Leaf and Avocado Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the subtle flavor of nasturtium leaves with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 nasturtium leaves
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the nasturtium leaves with cold water, pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large bowl, combine the nasturtium leaves and diced avocado.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional nasturtium flowers if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Nasturtium Infused Vinegar
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your dishes with this unique and aromatic nasturtium infused vinegar.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh nasturtium leaves and stems (about 10-12 pieces)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar (for balancing the flavors)
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the vinegar and nasturtium leaves and stems.
2. Store the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 weeks, shaking the jar every other day to ensure even infusion.
3. After 4 weeks, strain the vinegar through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass container. Discard the solids.
4. If desired, add sugar and stir until dissolved.
5. Store the nasturtium infused vinegar in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None (infusion time is 4 weeks)
Nasturtium and Cucumber Gazpacho
A refreshing twist on the classic Spanish soup, this gazpacho combines the sweetness of nasturtiums with the coolness of cucumbers. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped cucumber
– 1 cup chopped nasturtium flowers and leaves (stems and seeds removed)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumber, nasturtium, red bell pepper, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with additional nasturtium flowers if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nasturtium Flower Butter Spread
Nasturtium Flower Butter Spread Recipe
A sweet and tangy spread that combines the delicate flavor of nasturtium flowers with creamy butter, perfect for topping toast, scones, or using as a sandwich filling.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons nasturtium flowers (fresh or dried)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and nasturtium flowers until well combined.
2. Add the honey and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Notes:
– Fresh nasturtium flowers can be used in place of dried ones, but use only a few as they are quite potent.
– Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nasturtium and Citrus Salsa
Elevate your culinary experience with this vibrant and tangy salsa, featuring the unique flavor of nasturtium petals and a burst of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup nasturtium petals (fresh or dried)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine nasturtium petals, orange juice, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the petals are fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is best served fresh or within a few hours of preparation.
Nasturtium Leaf Wraps with Quinoa Filling
A flavorful and visually stunning dish, these wraps combine the delicate flavor of nasturtium leaves with the nutty goodness of quinoa. A perfect blend of textures and tastes, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 nasturtium leaves
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together quinoa, black beans, and cilantro.
3. Place a nasturtium leaf on a flat surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the quinoa mixture onto the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. Place wraps seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until leaves are slightly wilted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Nasturtium and Feta Cheese Tart
Nasturtium and Feta Cheese Tart Recipe
Brighten up your taste buds with the unique flavors of nasturtium and feta cheese in this sweet and savory tart.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh nasturtium leaves (or substitute with parsley or chives)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread feta cheese evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped nasturtium leaves and salt to taste over the feta cheese.
5. Fold the 1-inch borders up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the edges with honey for a sweet glaze.
7. Bake tart for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Nasturtium Petal Ice Cubes for Cocktails
Elevate your cocktails with a touch of whimsy and fragrance using nasturtium petal ice cubes. These delicate, edible cubes add a subtle hint of citrus and floral flavors to any drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dried nasturtium petals (available at specialty stores or online)
– Ice cube trays
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the dried nasturtium petals to the syrup and remove from heat. Let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the petals to infuse their flavor and aroma into the mixture.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass container. Discard the solids.
4. Pour the flavored syrup into ice cube trays, filling each cube about 2/3 full.
5. Freeze the cubes until solid, then use in your favorite cocktails.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Nasturtium and Shrimp Summer Rolls
Elevate your summer meals with this refreshing twist on traditional spring rolls. Nasturtium’s peppery flavor pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a crispy rice paper.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1/4 cup nasturtium leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 rice paper wrappers
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together shrimp, nasturtium, cilantro, soy sauce, and honey.
2. Lay a rice paper wrapper flat on a clean surface.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the shrimp-nasturtium mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Nasturtium Flower Risotto
This vibrant risotto combines the subtle sweetness of nasturtium flowers with creamy Arborio rice, perfect for a springtime dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup nasturtium flowers, chopped (fresh or dried)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in the chopped nasturtium flowers and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Nasturtium and Berry Smoothie Bowl
A refreshing summer treat that combines the sweetness of berries with the tanginess of nasturtium, perfect for a hot day or as a post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 cups nasturtium flowers and leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add the berries, nasturtium, banana, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired for a thicker consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with additional nasturtium flowers or leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Nasturtium Leaf Pesto Pizza
Nasturtium Leaf Pesto Pizza Recipe
Discover the unique flavor of nasturtium leaves in this innovative pizza recipe. The peppery taste and delicate crunch of these leaves add a fascinating twist to traditional pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup nasturtium leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a food processor, combine nasturtium leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. Add olive oil and process until well combined.
4. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
5. Spread the nasturtium pesto sauce over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Nasturtium and Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable game with this innovative recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the subtle tanginess of nasturtium flowers. This unique glaze adds a pop of color and flavor to your roasted carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon nasturtium flowers (fresh or dried)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the honey and nasturtium flowers. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
3. Toss the chopped carrots with the olive oil and salt in a separate bowl.
4. Spread the carrot sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the honey-nasturtium glaze evenly over the carrots.
6. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nasturtium and Prosciutto Bruschetta
Nasturtium and Prosciutto Bruschetta Recipe
Elevate your appetizer game with this unique fusion of flavors, featuring nasturtium flowers, prosciutto, and fresh mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1/4 cup nasturtium flowers (fresh or dried)
– 6 slices prosciutto di Parma
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into thin rounds and toast until crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
4. Brush the mixture onto toasted baguette slices.
5. Arrange prosciutto slices on top of the bread, leaving a small border around each slice.
6. Sprinkle nasturtium flowers over the prosciutto.
7. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Nasturtium and Peach Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of peaches with the subtle spiciness of nasturtiums, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups peaches, pureed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon nasturtium syrup (see note)
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine peach puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in nasturtium syrup and lemon juice. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating the mixture) + churning time (approximately 2 hours)
Note: To make nasturtium syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon nasturtium flowers in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Strain and let cool before using.
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of nasturtiums with these 19 unique recipes! From savory dishes like Nasturtium and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms to sweet treats like Nasturtium Flower Butter Spread, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Spicy Nasturtium Pesto Pasta or Creamy Nasturtium Soup with Croutons. Add a pop of color to your salads with Nasturtium Leaf and Avocado Salad or create a refreshing summer treat with Nasturtium Petal Ice Cubes for Cocktails. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to bring out the best in nasturtiums!
