For most of us, stinging nettles bring back one specific memory: a painful childhood run-in with a “weed” that left our legs itching for hours. But here’s the thing—nettles are actually a powerhouse medicinal plant that tastes absolutely delicious!
Tastes Just Like Spinach
To get the most out of those incredible nutrients, you’ll want to use your nettles as soon as possible after they’ve been freshly picked. The classic way to prep them is to give them a good wash, chop them up, and give them a quick boil. Once cooked, they have a flavor that’s remarkably similar to spinach. Plus, the heat completely destroys those tiny stinging hairs on the leaves, so you don’t have to worry about any “spicy” surprises in your mouth. To whip up a batch using about a pound (500g) of nettle leaves, you’ll just need:
- 1 onion
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
The Ultimate Healthy Smoothie
Nettles aren’t just for eating—they’re great for drinking, too! They make a fantastic addition to green smoothies. Just like boiling, the blending process breaks down the stinging hairs, making them perfectly safe to consume raw. If you’re looking for something a bit more comforting, nettles are a dream in soups. My favorite trick is to make a classic potato and carrot soup and toss in a handful of nettle leaves about ten minutes before it’s done cooking, then blend everything until smooth. And don’t forget: dried nettles make a wonderfully healing herbal tea.
A Twist on Pasta: Nettle Pesto
If you’re a pasta lover, you have to try turning fresh nettles into a vibrant pesto. It adds such a unique kick to your dinner. For about one small bowl of nettle leaves, grab these ingredients:
- 100 ml olive oil
- 30 g walnuts
- 20 g sunflower seeds or pine nuts
- 1 garlic clove
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Pro tip: Give your nuts and seeds a quick toast in a dry pan before blending everything together to really bring out the flavor!
