Stinging Nettle….
I picked up my CSA box yesterday & while I was unloading the contents into my BAGGU bags, I swore something bit me! “OUCH,” I exclaimed!!! Then, the guy at the farm stand said, “Oh, watch out for the stinging nettle!”
Huh? I’ve heard of stinging nettle, but didn’t realize they are edible! It turns out they are & really good for you, too! Stinging nettle are rich in vitamins A, C, D, iron, potassium, manganese, & calcium. Who knew! Soaking nettles in water, or blanching in boiling water will remove the stinging chemicals from the plant, which allows them to be handled & eaten. When cooked they have a flavor similar to spinach.
So then the question was…what in the world so I make with stinging nettle??? A few google searches lead me to: Stinging Nettle Pesto. Brilliant! I love pesto! I whipped some up & added some fresh basil for a little extra zing! After all what’s a pesto without a bit of basil, right? Make vegan by using Vegan Parmesan.
“Stinging Nettle Pesto”
