Nourishing Recipes with Nasturtium and Beans

Oleh Anonymous May 22, 2024 Post a Comment

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Are you looking for creative ways to add some zest to your meals? Look no further than nasturtium and beans! Not only do they add a pop of color to your plate, but they are also packed with nutrients. In this post, we'll explore some delicious recipes that incorporate these two ingredients.

The Benefits of Nasturtium and Beans

Before we dive into the recipes, let's take a closer look at the health benefits of nasturtium and beans.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a flowering plant that is rich in vitamins C and D, as well as iron and potassium. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost your immune system. Additionally, nasturtium has a peppery taste that can add some zing to your dishes.

Beans

Beans are a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. They can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote healthy digestion. Eating beans regularly is also associated with lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Recipe Ideas

Now that we know how beneficial nasturtium and beans can be, let's explore some tasty ways to incorporate them into our diets.

Nasturtium Pesto

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh nasturtium leaves
1/2 cup toasted walnuts
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Combine the nasturtium leaves, walnuts, parmesan cheese, and garlic in a food processor.
Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to pulse until the pesto is smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve over pasta or as a dip for veggies.

Three-Bean Salad with Nasturtium Flowers

Ingredients:

1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Handful of nasturtium flowers

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the beans, bell pepper, onion, and parsley.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and stir to combine.
Top with nasturtium flowers for a pop of color.

Nasturtium and beans are two versatile ingredients that can add a lot of flavor and nutrition to your meals. Whether you try out one of the recipes we've shared here or come up with your own culinary creation, we hope this post has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen.

FAQs

Q: Can I eat nasturtium flowers?

A: Yes! Nasturtium flowers are edible and have a slightly sweet, peppery taste.

Q: What kind of beans should I use in the three-bean salad?

A: You can use any combination of beans that you like. We suggest using kidney beans, chickpeas, and black beans for a variety of textures and flavors.

Q: How long will the nasturtium pesto keep in the fridge?

A: The pesto will keep for up to a week in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze the three-bean salad?

A: We don't recommend freezing the salad as the texture of the beans may change once thawed.

Q: Are there any other ways to use nasturtium besides in pesto?

A: Absolutely! You can chop up the leaves and add them to salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a spicy kick. You can also use the flowers as a garnish for cocktails or desserts.