Our focus this month is on the misunderstood herb, Spring Nettle!
Nettle is in season during spring and summer and is usually avoided due to “stinging” descriptor. Though, if properly prepared, these nutritious and flavorful plants do not need to be avoided. Discard the stems, boil for 3-4 minutes or until wilted, then chop up and store in your fridge for up to 5 days or use immediately in fresh dishes.
Want to use them easily without a recipe? Try tossing them into omelets, pasta dishes, and sauces … Just begin using them in different dishes and see what you like best! You can feel good about incorporating them in your meals as they’re packed with iron, calcium, vitamin A and C.
Prefer to use a recipe before committing to incorporating this herb in your weekly shopping list? Try this pesto crostini recipe! http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/nettle-walnut-pesto-crostini-237514
Spring Events Worth Attending:
In the spirit of Spring and being inspired by what’s in bloom locally, check out the ‘In Bloom’ event at the Toronto Botanical Gardens this May!
Event: Collingwood Garden Club at the Collingwood Downtown Farmers Market
Date: May 16, 23 and 30 2015 from 8:30 am to 1pm
Location: Pine Street Parking Lot – corner of Pine Street and Second Street in Collingwood
Website: www.collingwooddowntown.com/farmers-market
Email:
Event details: We’re very excited that for the four consecutive Saturdays commencing May 16, 2015 and ending June 6, 2015, the Collingwood Garden Club will be at the Collingwood Downtown Farmers Market. We’ll have planting activities for kids and adults, Master Gardeners, information about gardening, area gardens, membership, demonstrations and a special Draw every week for great gardening stuff! Drop in and see us and all the other terrific vendors at the Collingwood Downton Farmers Market - you won’t be sorry!
