Nasturtiums are vibrant, versatile, and beneficial for any garden. With striking orange, yellow, and red blooms, they add beauty while serving practical uses like pest control and attracting pollinators. Easy to grow and edible, nasturtiums bring value to gardens of all sizes. Let’s explore why they’re a must-have and how to use them.
Health Benefits of Nasturtiums
In addition to their culinary uses, nasturtiums have several health benefits:
- High in Vitamin C: Nasturtium leaves and flowers are rich in vitamin C, which can support immune health and help fight infections.
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- Antioxidant Properties: Nasturtiums contain antioxidants that protect against cell damage and support overall health.
- Antibacterial and Antifungal: The plant has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a great natural remedy in folk medicine.
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- Rich in Nutrients: Nasturtiums also contain iron, calcium, and other trace minerals that contribute to overall wellness.
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How to Use Every Part of the Nasturtium Plant
Each part of the nasturtium plant has its own unique taste and culinary application. Here’s a guide to incorporating nasturtium flowers, leaves, and seeds into your meals.
1. Flowers
- Taste: The flowers have a mild peppery flavor, similar to arugula, which adds a refreshing bite to dishes.
- How to Use:
- Add flowers to salads for a pop of color and spice.
- Use as a garnish for appetizers, soups, and main dishes.
- Stuff the flowers with soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a visually stunning and flavorful appetizer.
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2. Leaves
- Taste: Nasturtium leaves are spicy and peppery, making them perfect for enhancing savory dishes.
- How to Use:
- Use fresh leaves in salads, sandwiches, and wraps to add a zesty bite.
- Blend the leaves into pesto, adding an extra peppery kick that pairs well with pasta or grilled vegetables.
- Mix them into omelets or frittatas for an herbaceous, slightly spicy flavor.
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3. Seeds
- Taste: The green seeds are tangy, with a taste similar to capers.
- How to Use:
- Pickle the unripe seeds to create “poor man’s capers” for use in salads, sauces, or as a condiment.
- Add the seeds to marinades for meats or vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
- Grind the dried seeds and use them as a peppery spice to season roasted vegetables or dressings.
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Creative Ways to Use Nasturtiums Beyond the Garden
Aside from being a vibrant addition to your garden, nasturtiums have some fun and practical uses around the home:
- Natural Dyes: The flowers can be used to make natural dyes for fabrics, adding a gentle color to clothing or linens.
- Floral Arrangements: Nasturtiums’ colorful blooms make them ideal for bouquets and floral arrangements, brightening any room.
- Herbal Infusions: Use the flowers or leaves to create herbal infusions, teas, or even homemade vinegar infusions for a unique flavor twist.
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Nasturtiums are a valuable addition to any garden, repelling pests, attracting beneficial insects, and thriving in poor soil. Their edible flowers, leaves, and seeds offer unique flavors and health benefits. Easy to grow, they beautify gardens, enhance cooking, and support wellness. Embrace nasturtiums and bring your garden and kitchen to life!
