18 Vibrant Nasturtium Recipes to Brighten Your Plate

18 Vibrant Nasturtium Recipes to Brighten Your Plate

When it comes to adding a pop of color and flavor to your meals, few ingredients can rival the humble nasturtium. These edible flowers are a true delight, offering a burst of citrusy freshness and a dash of whimsy to any dish they’re added to. From savory soups to sweet desserts, nasturtiums have a way of elevating even the most mundane recipes into something truly special.

In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 vibrant nasturtium recipes that are sure to brighten up your plate and inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a simple yet elegant side dish, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and easy-to-make ideas.

Nasturtium and Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers

A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the crunch of nasturtium greens with the creaminess of goat cheese.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup nasturtium leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese, nasturtium leaves, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the goat cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Crispy Nasturtium Leaf Tempura

Add a touch of exotic flair to your meals with this innovative recipe for crispy nasturtium leaf tempura.

Ingredients:
– 12-15 nasturtium leaves, cleaned and drained
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper.
2. Slowly pour in the soda water while whisking until a smooth batter forms.
3. Dip each nasturtium leaf into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered nasturtium leaves in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes, depending on the number of leaves being fried.

Nasturtium Pesto Pasta Salad

Experience the sweet and tangy combination of nasturtium petals, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in this unique pasta salad.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1/4 cup nasturtium petals
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine nasturtium petals, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss to coat.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Nasturtium Flower Tacos

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this unique recipe featuring nasturtium flowers, a spicy twist on traditional tacos.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup nasturtium flowers (edible)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine nasturtium flowers, lime juice, and chili flakes. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, until slightly puffed and pliable.
3. Assemble tacos by spreading a spoonful of the nasturtium flower mixture onto each tortilla, followed by crumbled queso fresco.
4. Serve immediately with optional toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Nasturtium and Arugula Summer Salad

This refreshing summer salad combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the delicate, citrusy taste of nasturtium flowers. A perfect side dish or light lunch for a warm weather gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups arugula
– 1 cup nasturtium flowers (fresh or edible violas work as substitutes)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine arugula and nasturtium flowers.
2. Sprinkle feta cheese and pecans over the greens.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh.

Pickled Nasturtium Pods (Poor Man’s Capers)

A flavorful and tangy condiment made from the edible pods of nasturtium flowers, perfect for adding a burst of citrus flavor to your dishes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup nasturtium pods
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Rinse the nasturtium pods under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the salt dissolves.
3. Add the nasturtium pods to the liquid mixture and let them soak for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator.
4. After 24 hours, drain the pods and rinse with cold running water. Store them in a sterilized jar or container, making sure they are completely covered by the pickling liquid.

Cooking Time: 24 hours

Grilled Salmon with Nasturtium Butter

Elevate your summer grilling game with this flavorful and vibrant recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the pungency of nasturtium. A perfect blend of textures and tastes, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp nasturtium leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together butter, nasturtium leaves, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Place salmon fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Spread a tablespoon of nasturtium butter on each salmon fillet during the last minute of grilling.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Nasturtium Leaf Wraps with Spiced Lentils

Experience the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with this unique and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 nasturtium leaves (or substitute with collard green or kale)
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: yogurt or raita for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add cooked lentils, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Lay nasturtium leaves flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the lentil mixture onto the center of each leaf.
5. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up the wraps tightly. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the leaves are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Serve warm with a dollop of yogurt or raita, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Creamy Nasturtium and Potato Soup

This vibrant yellow soup combines the sweetness of nasturtium with the earthiness of potatoes, making for a unique and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup nasturtium flowers (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, nasturtium flowers (or dried), broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Stuffed Nasturtium Flowers with Herbed Cream Cheese

Add a touch of whimsy and flavor to your next gathering with these beautiful, edible flowers stuffed with herby cream cheese.

Ingredients:

– 12-15 nasturtium flowers (with stems intact)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Gently open each nasturtium flower and place about 1 tablespoon of the herbed cream cheese mixture in the center of each flower.
4. Close the petals around the filling to enclose it completely.
5. Place the stuffed flowers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cream cheese is lightly golden brown and fragrant.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with lemon zest (if using).
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Nasturtium and Citrus Vinaigrette

Brighten up your salads with the vibrant flavor of nasturtium and citrus! This refreshing vinaigrette is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup neutral-tasting oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons nasturtium flowers (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together oil, orange juice, nasturtium flowers (or dried), apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Store vinaigrette in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Cooking Time: None!

Chilled Nasturtium Gazpacho

This refreshing chilled soup is perfect for hot summer days. Nasturtium adds a unique and subtle peppery flavor to the classic Spanish gazpacho.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups chopped nasturtium flowers and leaves
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup chilled chicken or vegetable broth
– Croutons and chopped fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine nasturtium, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in the chilled broth.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with croutons and chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)

Roasted Beet and Nasturtium Carpaccio

A vibrant and refreshing take on the classic Italian dish, this carpaccio combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tangy crunch of nasturtium leaves.

Ingredients:

– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup nasturtium leaves (or arugula as a substitute)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into thin strips.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Arrange beet slices on a plate or platter. Top with nasturtium leaves (or arugula), shaved Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of the olive oil mixture.
5. Serve immediately, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 50 minutes

Nasturtium Seed Crackers with Dill

These flavorful crackers are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite dips or spreads. The combination of nasturtium seeds, fresh dill, and flaky pastry creates a deliciously crunchy snack that’s also packed with nutrients.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup nasturtium seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup fresh dill leaves, chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, nasturtium seeds, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in chopped dill leaves.
5. Gradually add cold water to form a dough.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, triangles).
8. Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crackers are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Candied Nasturtium Flowers for Desserts

Candied Nasturtium Flowers for Desserts: A Delicate Touch of Nature’s Beauty

Elevate your desserts with the sweet and subtle flavor of candied nasturtium flowers. These delicate petals can add a unique charm to cakes, pastries, and ice creams.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup nasturtium flowers
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the syrup reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add nasturtium flowers to the syrup and let them steep for at least 30 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of sweetness and color.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the flowers. Discard the flowers or use them as garnish.
6. Use the candied nasturtium flowers immediately, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup candied flowers

Nasturtium Infused Vinegar

Elevate your culinary creations with the unique flavor of nasturtium-infused vinegar. This recipe combines the subtle sweetness and tanginess of nasturtium flowers with a rich, full-bodied vinegar.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup dried nasturtium flowers (or fresh petals, if available)
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar

Instructions:

1. In a clean glass jar, combine the vinegar and nasturtium flowers.
2. Cover the jar with a lid and let it infuse for at least 2 weeks, shaking the mixture daily.
3. After 2 weeks, strain the vinegar through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste, stirring until dissolved.

Cooking Time: None (allowing the flavors to meld together)

Tips:

– For a stronger flavor, use more nasturtium flowers or infuse for a longer period.
– Experiment with different types of vinegar and sweeteners to create unique variations.
– Use this infused vinegar as a finishing touch for salads, soups, sauces, or as a marinade for meats.

Pan-Seared Scallops with Nasturtium Puree

Elevate your seafood game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring succulent scallops paired with a bright and tangy nasturtium puree.

Ingredients:

– 12 large scallops
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup nasturtium flowers (or substitute with mustard greens)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine nasturtium flowers, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve scallops with nasturtium puree spooned over the top.

Cooking Time:

– Scallops: 4-6 minutes total
– Nasturtium puree: 2-3 minutes

Savory Nasturtium and Cheddar Scones

Elevate your snack game with these flaky, cheesy scones infused with the subtle tang of nasturtium. Perfect for a quick afternoon pick-me-up or as a companion to your favorite soup.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh nasturtium leaves (or substitute with watercress or parsley)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 3/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, cheese, nasturtium leaves, salt, and baking powder. Mix until dough forms.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
5. Pat into an 8-inch circle. Cut into 8 wedges.
6. Place scones on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to brighten up your plate with these vibrant nasturtium recipes! From savory dishes like Nasturtium and Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers and Pan-Seared Scallops with Nasturtium Puree, to sweet treats like Candied Nasturtium Flowers for Desserts, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include a refreshing Summer Salad, crispy Nasturtium Leaf Tempura, and even pickled nasturtium pods as a tangy condiment. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful addition to your meals or a unique dessert option, these 18 recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this colorful flower!