While often overlooked as a pesky weed due to their sting, nettles (Urtica dioica) have long been cherished by herbalists for their edible and medicinal qualities. Nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrient-dense greens are the perfect addition to a variety of dishes– and spring is the perfect time to harvest their tender tops as they emerge from the earth.
If you’re looking for a delicious way to incorporate this foraged food into your diet, nettle quesadillas are a great option. With its earthy, spinach-like flavor, nettle is a nutritious addition to this nourishing spring meal. Cooking nettles destroys their stinging hairs, making them safe to enjoy. Just be sure to saute them thoroughly!
Whether you’re looking for a quick and simple way to work with wild foods or just want to make a nutrient-dense dish your kids will love, try these nettle quesadillas! Delicious and easy to prepare, they’re the perfect way to take advantage of this seasonal green.
Ingredients:
1 Tbsp butter
¾ cup fresh nettle leaves or tops, chopped
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup mozzarella cheese
1 medium tortilla
Makes 1 nettle quesadilla
Directions:
Heat a small skillet on medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the nettle greens and garlic.
Sauté the nettle greens until thoroughly wilted. Be sure to cook well to neutralize the sting!
While the nettles are cooking, heat a larger skillet on medium-high heat. When the nettles are thoroughly cooked, spoon them onto half of the tortilla. Then sprinkle the cheese on top.
Fold the other half of the tortilla over top of the fillings. Cook until the cheese is slightly melted and the tortilla is browned. Then flip and cook until the other half of the tortilla is toasted and the cheese has melted completely.
Remove the quesadilla from the pan and let cool for a few minutes before cutting into slices and enjoying. Serve with avocado, sour cream, or salsa, if desired.
Note: Fresh nettles do have hairs that cause a temporary tingly, stinging sensation when they touch the skin. While some people don’t mind this, you’ll want to wear gloves while handling nettle to avoid being stung.
