Nasturtium Mayonnaise: A Zesty Garden Delight

The first time I tasted nasturtium, it was a revelation. I was a young apprentice chef, foraging with my mentor in the rolling hills of Tuscany. The peppery bite of the leaves, the delicate sweetness of the flowers – they were unlike anything I’d experienced. He plucked a handful, tossed them with a simple salad of ricotta and olive oil, and I was hooked. Since then, I’ve been on a quest to find new and exciting ways to use these vibrant plants, and this Nasturtium Mayonnaise is one of my absolute favorites. It’s a celebration of fresh, garden-grown flavors, perfect for brightening up any dish.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¼ teaspoon finely minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons coarsely chopped capers
• ⅓ teaspoon grated lemon peel
• 2 teaspoons chopped nasturtium leaves

Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Zester or microplane
• Garlic press or fine grater

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely minced garlic, coarsely chopped capers, and grated lemon peel.
2. Gently fold in the chopped nasturtium leaves.
3. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Garlic Intensity: The strength of garlic flavor can vary greatly. Start with less garlic than the recipe calls for and then taste and adjust accordingly. For a more subtle flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before mincing them.
• Caper Connoisseur: Using good quality capers packed in salt will yield the best flavor. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry before chopping. Capers packed in vinegar can also be used, but they will have a slightly different tang.
• Zest is Best: When grating lemon peel, be sure to only zest the outer yellow layer, avoiding the white pith underneath, which can be bitter. A microplane is an excellent tool for achieving a fine zest.
• Nasturtium Freshness: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly picked nasturtium leaves. Avoid any leaves that are wilted or damaged. The size of the leaves doesn’t matter as you will be chopping them anyway.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mayonnaise.
• Blending for Smoothness: For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to briefly blend the mayonnaise after all ingredients are combined. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can cause the mayonnaise to separate.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Nasturtium Mayonnaise is incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic served with chilled summer salmon, grilled fish, or as a flavorful spread for tea sandwiches. Try it on a BLT for an extra burst of flavor, or use it as a dip for crudités. It also pairs well with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or even steak.

• Storage: Store the Nasturtium Mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze: Freezing will alter the texture of the mayonnaise.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	114.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	88 g	77%
Total Fat	9.8 g	15%
Saturated Fat	1.4 g	7%
Cholesterol	7.6 mg	2%
Sodium	229.9 mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	7.1 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	1.9 g	7%
Protein	0.3 g	0%

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Use vegan mayonnaise in place of regular mayonnaise. There are many excellent vegan mayonnaise options available in most supermarkets.
• Herb Garden Remix: Experiment with other herbs from your garden. Chives, dill, or parsley would all be delicious additions.
• Citrus Variations: Instead of lemon peel, try using lime or orange peel for a different citrus flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier mayonnaise.
• Garlic Lovers: For a stronger garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic. Roast a whole head of garlic until soft and then squeeze out the cloves and mash them before adding them to the mayonnaise.
• Alternative Alliums: If you don’t have garlic on hand, try using finely minced shallots or green onions for a similar flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried nasturtium leaves instead of fresh?
A: While fresh is always best for flavor and texture, you can use dried nasturtium leaves in a pinch. Use about half the amount of dried leaves as you would fresh, and be sure to rehydrate them slightly before adding them to the mayonnaise.

Q: How long will this mayonnaise last in the refrigerator?
A: The Nasturtium Mayonnaise will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use this mayonnaise as a salad dressing?
A: Yes, this mayonnaise can be used as a salad dressing. Thin it out slightly with a little lemon juice or water if desired.

Q: What if I don’t have capers?
A: If you don’t have capers, you can substitute finely chopped cornichons or gherkins.

Q: Is it necessary to chill the mayonnaise before serving?
A: Chilling the mayonnaise allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste. It’s best to chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving, but it can be served immediately if desired.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to try this Nasturtium Mayonnaise and experience the vibrant flavors of your garden in a whole new way. It’s a simple recipe, but the results are truly special. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create a mayonnaise that perfectly suits your taste. And please, share your feedback – I’d love to hear about your culinary adventures with nasturtiums! This mayonnaise is especially wonderful with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Rosé. Enjoy!