Are you tired of the same old boring recipes? Do you want to add some excitement to your meals without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Look no further than stinging nettle! This often-maligned herb is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and we’re here to show you why.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and easy-to-make stinging nettle recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. From soups and sauces to main courses and desserts, we’ve got you covered with our selection of tasty and unique dishes that showcase the versatility of stinging nettle.
So why not give it a try? Read on to discover the world of flavors and possibilities that await you when you incorporate stinging nettle into your cooking routine.
Creamy Stinging Nettle Soup
Discover the subtle charm of this velvety soup, featuring the unique flavor and nutritional benefits of stinging nettle. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh stinging nettle leaves (or 1 cup dried)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the nettle leaves (if using fresh) and remove any stems.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the stinging nettle leaves (fresh or dried), broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend, then return to the pot.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat over low heat until warmed through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stinging Nettle Pesto Pasta
Discover the earthy flavor of stinging nettle in this unique pasta dish. This recipe combines the subtle bitterness of nettle with creamy pesto and al dente pasta for a deliciously different twist on traditional pesto pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine nettle leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Toss cooked pasta with the stinging nettle pesto, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional nettle leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Potato Frittata
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast featuring the earthy taste of stinging nettle and the comfort of potato. This frittata is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup chopped fresh stinging nettle leaves (use gloves when handling)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Stir in the chopped stinging nettle leaves and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the potato and nettle mixture in the skillet.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Stinging Nettle Risotto with Parmesan
This creamy risotto recipe showcases the unique flavor of stinging nettles, perfectly balanced by the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese. A perfect blend of earthy and savory, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stinging nettles, chopped (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and nettles in olive oil until tender.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using); stir until absorbed.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until creamy.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Mushroom Quiche
A savory quiche packed with the earthy flavors of stinging nettle and mushrooms, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the mushrooms and onion in butter until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chopped stinging nettle leaves and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
6. Roll out pie crust and fill with mushroom-nettle mixture.
7. Pour egg mixture over the filling.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stinging Nettle Tea with Honey and Lemon
Stinging nettle tea has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of allergies, arthritis, and even skin conditions. This simple recipe adds a touch of sweetness from honey and a squeeze of freshness from lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried stinging nettle leaves
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder for added warmth
Instructions:
1. Steep the dried stinging nettle leaves in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
2. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids.
3. Add honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
4. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir well.
5. If desired, add ginger powder for an extra kick.
6. Enjoy your soothing nettle tea within 30 minutes of preparation.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant curry combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the creamy richness of chickpeas, creating a deliciously unique and nutritious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh stinging nettle leaves (about 2 cups)
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz), full-fat
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves and remove any stems or tough parts. Chop the leaves into small pieces.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chopped nettle leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk, chickpeas, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stinging Nettle Spanakopita
This recipe brings together the earthy flavor of stinging nettle and the classic Greek spinach pie, Spanakopita. Perfect for a unique dinner party or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, stinging nettle leaves, and spinach. Cook until the mixture is well combined and the liquid has evaporated.
4. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, beaten egg, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Place the spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges to seal. Brush with a little water and make a small slit in the top for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Stinging Nettle and Goat Cheese Tart
This savory tart combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a unique appetizer or side dish. With its delicate texture and subtle bitterness, this tart is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a bowl, combine nettle leaves, goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place the pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the nettle mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust. Brush with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Lentil Stew
This recipe is a perfect example of how to turn a common weed into a delicious and nutritious meal. The combination of stinging nettle, lentils, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful stew that’s both comforting and good for you.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh stinging nettle leaves (about 2 cups)
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the nettle leaves with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and nettle leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, featuring the earthy flavor of stinging nettle and creamy ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups cooked stinging nettle (see note)
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked stinging nettle, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the nettle-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with chopped parsley (if using) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Garlic Butter Saute
This recipe showcases the earthy flavor of stinging nettle, paired with the pungency of garlic butter. Perfect as a side dish or added to pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the stinging nettle leaves to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted.
5. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and well combined with the nettles.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot as a side dish or add to your favorite recipe.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Pumpkin Seed Pesto
This vibrant pesto recipe combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the nutty taste of pumpkin seeds, creating a unique and nutritious condiment perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves with cold water and pat dry.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine nettle leaves, pumpkin seeds, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth.
4. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Notes:
– Stinging nettle leaves can be found at farmers’ markets or foraged wild.
– Pumpkin seeds can be toasted in a dry skillet before using for added flavor.
– This pesto is best used fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Stinging Nettle and Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Stinging Nettle and Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe
Discover the unique flavor combination of stinging nettle and sweet potato in this innovative gnocchi recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves (stems removed)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine sweet potatoes and stinging nettle leaves. Process until smooth.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the processed mixture with flours, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove from heat and serve with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Caramelized Onion Pizza
This unique pizza combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the sweetness of caramelized onions, creating a deliciously savory and sweet combination. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup stinging nettle leaves (fresh or dried)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Add stinging nettle leaves to the onion mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Spread caramelized onion and stinging nettle mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Smoked Salmon Omelette
Elevate your breakfast game with this unique and flavorful combination of stinging nettle and smoked salmon, wrapped in a fluffy omelette.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh stinging nettle leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 2 slices of smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the chopped nettle leaves or dried nettle flakes and stir gently to combine.
5. Arrange the smoked salmon on one half of the omelette.
6. Use a spatula to fold the other half over the salmon.
7. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are almost set.
8. Slide the omelette onto a plate and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Wild Rice Salad
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the nutty taste of wild rice, perfect for a light summer meal. With its vibrant green color and delicate texture, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stinging nettle leaves
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the stinging nettle leaves with cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Toss until well combined.
3. Add the rinsed stinging nettle leaves to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Lemon Zest Scones
These scones are the perfect way to showcase the bright, tangy flavor of stinging nettle and the citrusy zing of lemon zest. With their delicate texture and subtle bitterness, they’re sure to impress at your next brunch or tea party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons chopped stinging nettle leaves (fresh or dried)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream, egg, lemon zest, and chopped nettle leaves. Stir until just combined.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
5. Pat into a circle, about 1 inch thick.
6. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to create shapes.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed chicken, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of stinging nettle with the pungency of blue cheese. The result is a rich, savory dish perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh stinging nettle leaves (or 2 cups dried)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, blend nettle leaves, blue cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the nettle-blue cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stinging Nettle and Chocolate Chip Cookies
This sweet and savory cookie recipe combines the earthy flavor of stinging nettle with the richness of dark chocolate chips, creating a unique treat that’s perfect for adventurous bakers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup stinging nettle leaves, chopped (fresh or dried)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in honey, baking soda, and salt.
5. Fold in chopped stinging nettle leaves and dark chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the culinary delight of stinging nettle with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From creamy soups to savory pasta dishes, and from quiches to scones, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making Stinging Nettle Pesto Pasta or indulge in a rich Stinging Nettle Risotto with Parmesan. For a sweet treat, whip up some Stinging Nettle and Chocolate Chip Cookies. With its mild flavor and versatility, stinging nettle is the perfect addition to any meal. Get cooking and explore the endless possibilities of this underappreciated superfood!
