Nasturtiums help keep pests away from other plants, and both their leaves and flowers are edible, adding a peppery kick to salads...Read more...

 

Nasturtiums: The Garden’s Natural Pest Repellent and Flavorful Edible Wonder

Nasturtiums (genus Tropaeolum) are a favorite among gardeners not just for their bright, cheerful blooms but also for their powerful ability to deter pests naturally. What’s more, both the leaves and flowers of nasturtiums are edible, offering a distinctive peppery flavor that can add a fresh zing to salads, garnishes, and even cooked dishes.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

• How nasturtiums help keep pests away

• Nutritional and culinary benefits of nasturtium leaves and flowers

• Tips for growing and harvesting nasturtiums

• A variety of delicious recipes featuring nasturtiums, including salads, pestos, soups, and more

• Creative ways to use nasturtiums to enhance your garden and kitchen

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1. Nasturtiums as a Natural Pest Repellent

1.1 Why Nasturtiums Attract and Repel Pests

Nasturtiums act as a trap crop, drawing pests like aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs away from more vulnerable vegetables. The pests are attracted to nasturtiums’ bright colors and tasty foliage, sparing your tomatoes, cucumbers, and cabbages from damage.

1.2 Companion Planting Benefits

• Protects vegetables: Nasturtiums reduce pest pressure without the use of chemicals.

• Improves pollination: Their bright flowers attract beneficial insects such as bees and predatory wasps.

• Soil enhancer: Nasturtiums fix nitrogen, helping enrich the soil for other plants.

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2. Culinary Uses: Edible Nasturtium Leaves and Flowers

2.1 Flavor Profile

• The leaves offer a crisp, peppery taste reminiscent of watercress or arugula.

• The flowers have a slightly milder but still spicy flavor and add vibrant color to dishes.

2.2 Nutritional Value

Nasturtiums provide:

• Vitamins A, C, and E

• Minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium

• Antioxidants and antibacterial compounds

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3. Growing and Harvesting Nasturtiums

3.1 How to Grow Nasturtiums

• Climate: Nasturtiums prefer full sun but tolerate some shade.

• Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil is ideal. Avoid overly rich soil to prevent leggy growth.

• Water: Moderate watering; avoid waterlogging.

• Planting: Sow seeds directly after last frost or start indoors 4-6 weeks earlier.

• Spacing: Plant 10-12 inches apart.

3.2 Harvesting Tips

• Pick young leaves for the best flavor and tenderness.

• Harvest flowers when fully open in the morning for peak color and taste.

• Regular harvesting encourages continuous blooming.

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4. Recipes Featuring Nasturtiums

Here’s a selection of recipes showcasing nasturtium leaves and flowers. These dishes range from light, fresh salads to rich pestos and hearty soups, all celebrating nasturtium’s unique peppery kick.

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Recipe 1: Nasturtium Leaf and Flower Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed salad greens

• 1 cup nasturtium leaves, washed and roughly chopped

• 1/2 cup nasturtium flowers, gently washed

• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the salad greens, nasturtium leaves, and flowers.

2. Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

4. Sprinkle with toasted nuts and feta cheese just before serving.

Notes: This salad is bright, fresh, and peppery — perfect as a starter or side dish.

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Recipe 2: Nasturtium Pesto

Ingredients:

• 1 cup nasturtium leaves (packed)

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 garlic clove

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine nasturtium leaves, basil, nuts, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.

2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while the processor runs until smooth.

3. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and pulse briefly to combine.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve tossed with pasta, spread on bread, or as a dip.

Notes: Nasturtium pesto has a peppery twist that livens up traditional pesto flavor.

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Recipe 3: Creamy Nasturtium Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups vegetable broth

• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 cup nasturtium leaves, packed

• 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.

2. Add potatoes and broth; bring to a boil and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).

3. Add nasturtium leaves and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

4. Blend soup until smooth using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender.

5. Stir in cream or coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.

6. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Notes: This soup combines creaminess with nasturtium’s peppery freshness.

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Recipe 4: Nasturtium Flower-Infused Vinegar

Ingredients:

• 1 cup nasturtium flowers, fresh and washed

• 2 cups white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Place nasturtium flowers in a clean glass jar.

2. Pour vinegar over flowers, covering completely.

3. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks.

4. Strain out the flowers and transfer the vinegar to a bottle.

Usage: Use nasturtium vinegar in salad dressings or to brighten up sauces.

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Recipe 5: Nasturtium Flower Garnish for Cocktails and Desserts

Add nasturtium flowers as a colorful, edible garnish on:

• Cocktails like gin and tonic or sparkling wine

• Desserts such as panna cotta or lemon tarts

• Cheese platters or charcuterie boards

Their bright color and peppery taste add flair and flavor.

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5. Tips for Using Nasturtiums Safely

• Only use nasturtiums grown without pesticides or chemicals.

• Wash leaves and flowers gently before use.

• Introduce nasturtiums to your diet gradually to ensure no allergic reaction.

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6. Final Thoughts: Why Nasturtiums Are a Gardener’s and Chef’s Delight

Nasturtiums beautifully combine function and flavor—protecting your garden from pests while elevating your meals with their vibrant color and peppery bite. By incorporating nasturtiums into your planting and cooking, you create a sustainable, healthy, and delightful gardening and culinary experience.