Discover the Nutritious and Flavorful World of Stinging Nettle Recipes!
As the seasons change, many people are eager to get their hands on fresh, seasonal ingredients to add some excitement to their meal planning. And what better way to do so than with a humble yet mighty ingredient like stinging nettle? With its impressive nutritional profile and versatility in the kitchen, it’s no wonder why stinging nettle has gained popularity among food enthusiasts.
From creamy soups to savory pasta dishes, sweet teas to decadent desserts, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious stinging nettle recipes that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, this collection of recipes will take your taste buds on a wild ride and leave you wondering why you ever overlooked this incredible ingredient in the first place.
Creamy Stinging Nettle Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect way to enjoy the unique flavor of stinging nettle, often overlooked but packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh stinging nettle leaves (or 1 cup dried)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the nettle leaves (fresh or dried) and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stinging Nettle Pesto Pasta
Discover the unique flavor of stinging nettle pesto in this simple and delicious pasta recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettles leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine stinging nettle leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and pesto sauce. Toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional stinging nettle leaves or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sautéed Stinging Nettle with Garlic
Stinging nettle adds a unique flavor and texture to this simple yet flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for springtime when stinging nettle is in season.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Chop the garlic into small pieces and set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chopped nettle leaves and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until they start to wilt.
5. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Potato Gratin
Stinging Nettle and Potato Gratin Recipe
Summary: A delicious and savory gratin dish that combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the comfort of potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g stinging nettle leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 150ml grated cheese (Gruyère or Cheddar work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F.
2. In a large saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the stinging nettle leaves and cook for 2-3 minutes or until wilted.
3. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased baking dish, create a layer of cooked nettle mixture. Top with overlapping potato slices, then sprinkle with butter and grated cheese.
5. Repeat steps 4 for two more layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stinging Nettle Tea with Honey
Relieve itchy skin and promote overall well-being with this calming herbal tea. Stinging nettle’s anti-inflammatory properties, combined with the soothing power of honey, make for a perfect pairing.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried stinging nettle leaves
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1-2 teaspoons pure honey (depending on desired sweetness)
– Optional: lemon slice or cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the dried stinging nettle leaves and let steep for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tea to reach your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add the honey to taste, stirring until fully dissolved.
5. Enjoy hot or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Cheese Omelette
This recipe combines the subtle bitterness of stinging nettle with the richness of melted cheese, perfect for a spring morning breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves (blanched or cooked to remove sting)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
4. Add the blanched stinging nettle leaves on one half of the omelette.
5. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the nettle leaves.
6. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
7. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
8. Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Stinging Nettle Risotto
Discover the subtle yet intriguing flavor of stinging nettles in this unique risotto recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup stinging nettle leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with the oil mixture.
5. Warm the vegetable broth separately; add 1/2 cup at a time to the saucepan, stirring continuously, allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, or when the rice is tender, stir in the stinging nettle leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Stinging Nettle and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the subtle bitterness of stinging nettle, all wrapped up in a savory stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves with cold water, then chop them into small pieces.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and chopped nettle leaves to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stinging Nettle Spanakopita
This savory pie combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with traditional spanakopita ingredients, resulting in a unique and delicious twist on a classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add fresh stinging nettle leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, mix crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a baking dish.
6. Fill the pie crust with the nettle mixture, followed by the feta-Parmesan-egg mixture.
7. Fold edges of pie crust over filling to form a seal.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettles with the comforting warmth of lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The slightly bitter taste of the nettles is balanced by the sweetness of the vegetables, creating a rich and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh stinging nettle leaves (or 1 cup frozen)
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, water or broth, nettles, carrot, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Chickpea Curry
A vibrant and flavorful Indian-inspired curry that showcases the unique properties of stinging nettle, paired with the comforting taste of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves (blanched to remove sting)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Add blanched stinging nettle leaves; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stinging Nettle Frittata
Elevate your breakfast game with this unique and flavorful frittata featuring stinging nettle, a nutrient-rich herb often used in Italian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves (cleaned and chopped)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped stinging nettle leaves and mix well.
4. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Pour in egg mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, until edges start to set.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and transfer skillet to preheated oven.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are almost set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Ricotta Ravioli
Discover the unique flavor combination of stinging nettle and ricotta cheese wrapped in a delicate pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with chopped stinging nettle leaves.
5. Place small spoonfuls of the nettle-ricotta mixture onto the pasta sheets, leaving a 1-inch border around each filling.
6. Fold the pasta over the filling to form triangles or squares. Press edges together to seal.
7. Cook ravioli in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
8. Serve with your favorite sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Lemon Butter Sauce
This tangy and aromatic sauce is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip for crusty bread. The stinging nettle adds a subtle bitterness to balance out the sweetness of the lemon butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh stinging nettle leaves (or 1 cup dried)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Chop the nettle leaves into small pieces and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
4. Add the lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Add the chopped stinging nettle leaves to the saucepan and stir to combine.
6. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Walnut Pesto
Harvesting stinging nettles requires caution, but the reward is a unique and delicious pesto that pairs perfectly with pasta, pizza, or as a dip. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of nettles with the richness of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1/2 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the nettle leaves with cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine nettles, walnuts, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Process until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Stinging Nettle and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that showcases the unique flavor of stinging nettle, perfectly balanced with creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves (cooked and chopped)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, mix together the cooked stinging nettle, goat cheese, and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the filling.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Pumpkin Seed Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the earthy taste of stinging nettle with the nutty crunch of pumpkin seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped red onion, crumbled goat cheese, or toasted almonds for added texture
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves with cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large bowl, combine the stinging nettle leaves and pumpkin seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the nettle and pumpkin seed mixture; toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, but it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stinging Nettle and Caramelized Onion Pizza
This savory pizza combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the sweetness of caramelized onions, creating a unique and delicious combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups stinging nettle leaves (fresh or dried)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, flour, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down dough and roll out into a circle or rectangle shape.
4. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Top the pizza crust with caramelized onions, stinging nettle leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Bacon Quiche
A savory quiche filled with the earthy flavor of stinging nettle, smoky bacon, and rich eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stinging nettle leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the stinging nettle leaves with a pinch of salt until wilted.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and grated cheese. Add cooked nettle and bacon; stir to combine.
5. Roll out the pie crust and fill with the egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of stinging nettle recipes! From creamy soups to savory stir-fries, and from sweet teas to satisfying risottos, these 20 recipes showcase the versatility and nutritional benefits of this underappreciated leafy green. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious beginner, there’s something for everyone in this collection, which includes dishes like Stinging Nettle Pesto Pasta, Sautéed Stinging Nettle with Garlic, and Stinging Nettle and Cheese Omelette. Get ready to unleash the flavor and nutrition of stinging nettle in your kitchen!
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