nettle leaf

Nettle Leaf

Nettle leaf, often recognized for its stinging properties when raw, transforms into a nutritious and flavorful ingredient once cooked. These dark green leaves offer an earthy, slightly spinach-like taste with a hint of cucumber. The texture of cooked nettle leaf is tender and delicate, similar to other leafy greens. Discover the versatility of fresh nettle leaves, a foraged ingredient that adds unique character to various dishes.

Common Uses

  • Use blanched nettle leaves as a spinach substitute in pasta dishes, like ravioli fillings or lasagna, for a nutritious and subtly earthy flavor boost.
  • Create a flavorful and vitamin-rich nettle soup by simmering the cooked leaves in broth with potatoes, onions, and herbs, then blending until smooth.
  • Add chopped, cooked nettle leaf to omelets, frittatas, or quiches to enhance their nutritional value and introduce a unique vegetal note.
  • Brew nettle tea using dried or fresh leaves by steeping them in hot water, resulting in an earthy and slightly grassy-tasting herbal beverage, that many enjoy for its potential health benefits.
  • Incorporate cooked nettle leaves into pesto, blending them with nuts, garlic, cheese, and olive oil for a vibrant green sauce to serve with pasta or vegetables.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

42.0kcal (2.1%)

Protein

2.7g (5.4%)

Carbs

7.5g (2.73%)

Sugars

0.3g (0.6%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamin C, and vitamin A, supporting overall health and well-being.
  • May help reduce inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory compounds, potentially alleviating symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
  • Can act as a natural diuretic, promoting healthy kidney function and helping to flush out excess fluids.
  • Supports allergy relief by potentially reducing histamine production, which may alleviate symptoms of hay fever and other allergies.
  • May help regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to better glucose control and potentially benefiting individuals with diabetes.
  • Supports skin health with its antioxidants, potentially promoting a clearer complexion and reducing signs of aging.

Substitutes

Storage Tips

To store nettle leaves and maximize their shelf life, ensure they are completely dry before storing. Fresh nettle leaves are best used immediately. If you must store them, wrap them loosely in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator; they will typically last for 1-2 days. Dried nettle leaves should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry, away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain their flavor and potency for up to a year. For longer storage, consider freezing blanched nettle leaves; they can retain their quality for several months.

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