Transform the vibrant nasturtium leaves growing in your garden into a delightful and peppery pesto. This easy-to-make nasturtium pesto recipe combines the unique flavor of nasturtium leaves with creamy cashews and rich Parmesan cheese, creating a versatile and delicious condiment that’s perfect for pasta, bruschetta, or as a vibrant drizzle over grilled dishes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups nasturtium leaves, washed and patted dry
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts, roasted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime (optional)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by gathering fresh nasturtium leaves from your garden. Make sure they are clean and free from any dirt or insects. Lightly toast the cashew nuts in a dry skillet until they are golden and fragrant, which will bring out their creamy texture and nutty flavor.
- Blending the Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the nasturtium leaves, roasted cashew nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Pulse a few times to chop the ingredients coarsely.
- Slowly add the lemon juice and olive oil while the processor is running, blending until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. You can adjust the amount of olive oil depending on whether you prefer a thicker or more fluid pesto.
- Seasoning:
- Taste the pesto and season with salt and pepper. The peppery taste of the nasturtium leaves pairs wonderfully with the nutty and cheesy flavors, so adjust the seasoning to highlight these natural tastes.
- Storing or Serving:
- Your nasturtium pesto can be used immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you plan to store it, top the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil to keep it fresh and prevent oxidation.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta: Toss the pesto with hot pasta for a quick and flavorful meal.
- Bruschetta: Spread on toasted bread and top with cherry tomatoes for a delicious appetizer.
- Grilled Meats: Drizzle over grilled chicken or steak to enhance the flavor with a fresh, herbal note.
This nasturtium pesto recipe is a wonderful way to use up the abundant nasturtium leaves from your kitchen garden. Its unique flavor profile adds an extraordinary touch to simple dishes, making it a must-try for any home cook looking for new ways to enjoy their garden’s bounty.
Try this recipe and see how the peppery tang of nasturtium leaves can transform your meals! Share your creations and experiences using this special pesto on social media, and encourage your friends to explore the flavours of their own gardens.
At home with Mrs E 