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May Day Nettle & Spring Onion Soup

Nettle and Spring Onion Soup garnished with edible flowers and spring onions, showcasing seasonal flavors.

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Nettle and Spring Onion Soup garnished with edible flowers and spring onions, showcasing seasonal flavors.

May Day Nettle & Spring Onion Soup is a refreshing and nourishing dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of spring. As the earth awakens, foraging for stinging nettles and harvesting fresh spring onions become a delightful ritual. This traditional spring tonic soup carries a vibrant green hue that hints at its abundance of nutrients. Ideal for anyone seeking to harness the flavors of the season, this recipe combines wild ingredients that many overlook, turning them into a flavorful and healthful soup. It serves as both a comfort food and a nutritional powerhouse.

Nettle, once a staple in many households, is packed with vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, making it a fantastic addition to any diet, particularly during the springtime. It is known for its detoxifying properties and can improve circulation. Spring onions add a mild onion flavor that complements the nettles, while also providing fiber and antioxidants, which boost overall health. The combination creates not only a delicious dish but also one that supports the immune system and contributes to general wellness, making it a perfect spring tonic.

This soup can be enjoyed on various occasions from cozy family dinners to elegant spring gatherings. It’s an excellent starter for a seasonal meal or a champion dish to honor the arrival of warmer weather. Serve it warm for a comforting lunch or light dinner, and consider garnishing it with edible flowers and fresh herbs for a spectacular presentation. Whether you are celebrating May Day or simply looking to celebrate the flavors of spring, this soup offers a unique culinary experience.

Nettle and Spring Onion Soup garnished with edible flowers and spring onions, showcasing seasonal flavors.

May Day Nettle & Spring Onion Soup

Recipe by Lena Caldwell

Difficulty

Beginner

Servings

4 servings

Prep time

15 Mins

Cooking time

20 Mins

Ingredients

  • 300g stinging nettles
  • 200g spring onions
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 4 cups vegetable stock
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Edible flowers for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Gather fresh stinging nettles and spring onions, ensuring they are clean and free from pesticides.
  2. In a large pot, sauté one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves in olive oil until softened.
  3. Add the prepared nettles and spring onions to the pot and cook for about three to four minutes until wilted.
  4. Pour in four cups of vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat and simmer for about ten minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Blend the soup using a handheld mixer or a blender until smooth.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced spring onions and edible flowers for an appealing presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

120

Carbs

15

Protein

4

Fats

5