As the seasons change and fresh herbs come into bloom, there’s no better way to celebrate than by incorporating their unique flavors and aromas into your cooking. Chive blossoms, with their delicate purple petals and oniony charm, are a hidden gem in many gardens. And once you’ve discovered their delightful taste, you’ll want to use them in everything from savory main dishes to sweet treats.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the seasons, showcasing 18 mouthwatering recipes that highlight the best of chive blossoms. From pasta dishes and risottos to tarts and salads, these creative recipes will inspire you to get cooking with this versatile and flavorful ingredient.
Chive Blossom Pesto Pasta
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines the sweetness of chive blossoms with the richness of pesto, perfect for a springtime dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup chive blossoms
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chive blossoms and pesto. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chive-blossom pesto mixture and stir for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Chive Blossom Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this creamy and flavorful recipe, featuring the subtle sweetness of chives and the vibrant color of blossom.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon blossom or edible flower petals (such as violas or pansies)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream, chives, and blossom petals. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chive Blossom and Goat Cheese Tart
This elegant tart combines the subtle sweetness of chive blossoms with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a springtime gathering or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chive blossoms
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and chopped chive blossoms. Spread mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the filling and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chive Blossom Infused Vinegar
Elevate your culinary creations with this unique and flavorful vinegar, infused with the delicate charm of chive blossoms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup fresh chive blossoms (or 2 tablespoons dried)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Combine vinegar, chive blossoms (and/or dried chives), and water in a glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Allow the mixture to steep at room temperature for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every few days. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the vinegar through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
4. Store the infused vinegar in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 2-3 weeks (steeping time)
Grilled Salmon with Chive Blossom Butter
Elevate your summer grilling game with this elegant and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Fresh chives add a bright, oniony flavor to the rich butter, complementing the smoky salmon beautifully.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and chopped chives until well combined.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down (if it has skin).
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Spread the chive blossom butter on top of each fillet during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Chive Blossom and Lemon Risotto
A creamy and aromatic risotto infused with the subtle flavor of chive blossoms and a bright, citrusy twist from lemon.
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 chive blossoms, chopped (fresh or dried)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in chopped chive blossoms and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chive Blossom Frittata with Fresh Herbs
A flavorful and visually appealing breakfast or brunch option that highlights the beauty of chive blossoms and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped chive blossoms
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the melted butter, chopped chive blossoms, parsley, and chives to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9-inch (23cm) round baking dish or skillet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the frittata is set and golden brown on top.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey-Chive Blossom Glazed Chicken
Elevate your weeknight meals with this sweet and savory glazed chicken recipe, featuring the brightness of chives and the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, chives, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey-chive glaze evenly over each breast.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chive Blossom and Garlic Butter Spread
Elevate your bread game with this aromatic spread, perfect for topping toast, crackers, or using as a dip. The combination of chive blossoms and garlic creates a rich, savory flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chive blossoms, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped chive blossoms, and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Add the lemon juice and salt to taste, mixing until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or jar with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply serve and enjoy.
Chive Blossom Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of chives and a touch of elegance. These Chive Blossom Deviled Eggs are perfect for any occasion, from brunch to a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
4. Stir in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle chopped chives on top of each deviled egg.
7. Garnish with paprika or additional chopped chives.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble the deviled eggs just before serving.
Chive Blossom Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Brighten up your plate with this refreshing salad featuring delicate chive blossoms and a zesty citrus vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chive blossoms
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp citrus vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chive blossoms, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chive Blossom and Cheddar Scones
Chive Blossom and Cheddar Scones Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these buttery, cheesy scones infused with the subtle sweetness of chive blossoms. Perfect for a sunny morning or as a delightful accompaniment to soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chive blossoms (or 1 teaspoon dried chives)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in grated cheddar cheese.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and chopped chive blossoms (or dried chives). Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until dough forms.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together. Pat into an 8-inch circle.
6. Cut into 8-10 wedges and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each scone.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Chive Blossom Soup with Croutons
Savor the sweet and subtle flavor of chive blossoms in this refreshing soup, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chive blossoms (fresh or dried)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Croutons:
+ 1/2 baguette, cubed
+ 2 tablespoons olive oil
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chive blossoms, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
3. Stir in butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss baguette cubes with olive oil and salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot soup with croutons on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Carrots with Chive Blossom Yogurt Dip
Savor the sweet and earthy flavors of roasted carrots paired with a tangy and refreshing yogurt dip infused with chive blossoms. This simple yet elegant side dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tsp chive blossom petals (or substitute with fresh chives or scallions)
– Honey, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, chive blossoms, and honey (if using).
5. Serve roasted carrots with the chive blossom yogurt dip.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chive Blossom and Spring Pea Bruschetta
Brighten up your springtime gatherings with this delightful bruschetta recipe, featuring the sweet essence of chive blossoms and the tender crunch of fresh peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chive blossoms, chopped
– 1 cup fresh spring peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush the tops with the vinegar mixture.
4. Sprinkle chopped chive blossoms over the bread, followed by fresh spring peas.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the peas are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chive Blossom Stir-Fry with Crispy Tofu
A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that combines the sweetness of chive blossoms with the crunch of crispy tofu, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chive blossoms
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add chive blossoms, soy sauce, honey, and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until blossoms are wilted.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute, until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chive Blossom and Dill Pickled Cucumbers
Elevate your pickling game with this refreshing recipe, featuring the subtle charm of chive blossoms and the classic flavor of dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup (120ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chive blossoms
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and kosher salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess moisture.
2. Drain the cucumber mixture and rinse with cold water.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and black peppercorns. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the chive blossoms and dill to the pickling liquid. Stir to combine.
5. Pack the cucumber mixture into clean glass jars or containers. Pour the pickling liquid over the cucumbers, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Chive Blossom Compound Butter for Steaks
Elevate your steak game with this aromatic and flavorful compound butter, infused with the subtle sweetness of chive blossoms.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chive blossoms
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped chive blossoms, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a log or roll, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Wrap the log in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Slice the compound butter into thin rounds.
5. Place the butter slices on top of your steak during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt and infuse the meat with its aromatic flavor.
Cooking Time:
– 3-5 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick steak
Summary
Discover the versatile flavor of chive blossoms with these 18 recipes, perfect for every season. From pasta to salads, soups to brunch options, and even baked goods, chive blossoms add a subtle oniony sweetness to any dish. Try Chive Blossom Pesto Pasta or Creamy Mashed Potatoes for comfort food with a twist. For lighter fare, try the Chive Blossom Salad or Grilled Salmon with Chive Blossom Butter. Whether you’re cooking for one or many, these recipes showcase the beauty of this often-overlooked ingredient.
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