As spring arrives, our palates are eager to trade in heavy winter fare for lighter, brighter flavors. One ingredient that embodies the essence of the season is wild garlic, also known as ramps or Allium ursinum. With its pungent aroma and tangy flavor, wild garlic adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of wild garlic. From classic pasta dishes to savory soups and indulgent brunch options, these flavorful creations are sure to inspire your culinary creativity.
Wild Garlic Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful springtime pasta dish featuring the bright, earthy flavor of wild garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup fresh wild garlic leaves (or substitute with regular garlic scapes or basil)
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine wild garlic leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
4. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water before draining spaghetti. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pesto and toss, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy sauce.
5. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Wild Garlic Soup
Savor the pungent flavor of wild garlic in this rich and creamy soup, perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for your next dinner party. This recipe showcases the boldness of wild garlic without overpowering other flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves wild garlic ( ramps), chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add wild garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped wild garlic leaves or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Garlic and Potato Frittata
This springtime frittata combines the pungent flavor of wild garlic with the comforting warmth of potatoes, making for a delicious breakfast or brunch option. Perfect for using up a bounty of fresh wild garlic, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4-6 stalks wild garlic ( ramps), chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Add the chopped wild garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the potato and wild garlic mixture in the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to set.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are almost set.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the pungent flavor of wild garlic and creamy butter. This recipe yields a juicy, aromatic bird that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped wild garlic (or ramps)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and chopped wild garlic until well combined.
3. Season the chicken inside and out with salt and black pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity with the wild garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat the breast and legs evenly.
5. Place the lemon quarters in the cavity for added flavor.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Garlic Risotto with Lemon Zest
Discover the bright, citrusy flavor of springtime in this creamy Wild Garlic Risotto, elevated by a burst of lemon zest. This recipe is perfect for showcasing the rich, pungent flavor of wild garlic (also known as ramps) and the warmth of Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh wild garlic (ramps)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped wild garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, and waiting for it to absorb before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Wild Garlic and Mushroom Tart
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this savory tart, featuring the pungent wild garlic (also known as ramps) and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup fresh wild garlic leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped wild garlic and sliced mushrooms. Spread mixture evenly over the center of the tart, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Fold edges of the tart up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until puff pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Garlic Bread with Parmesan
This recipe combines the bright, pungent flavor of wild garlic (also known as ramps) with the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese to create a unique and delicious bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh wild garlic leaves (about 6-8 leaves)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, chopped wild garlic, and salt to the mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking time: approximately 45 minutes
Wild Garlic and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Wild Garlic and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
A flavorful and earthy twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe combines the pungency of wild garlic with the creaminess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons wild garlic (or chives), chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps by gently wiping them with a damp cloth.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese, wild garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the goat cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Garlic Hummus with Crudités
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on traditional hummus! This recipe combines the pungent flavor of wild garlic with creamy chickpeas and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 cloves wild garlic (or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley)
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Crudités (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers) for serving
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, wild garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil. Continue blending until the hummus reaches desired consistency.
4. Serve with crudités of your choice.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Wild Garlic and Spinach Stuffed Salmon
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the earthy taste of wild garlic with the nutty flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicious salmon fillet.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh wild garlic leaves, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped wild garlic, spinach, and minced garlic.
3. Place each salmon fillet on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Divide the spinach mixture evenly among the four fillets, spooning it onto one half of each fillet.
5. Fold the other half of the fillet over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Wild Garlic and Cheddar Scones
Celebrate the arrival of spring with these fragrant and flavorful scones, infused with the bright flavor of wild garlic (also known as ramps) and the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh wild garlic leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, butter, and cheese until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add chopped wild garlic leaves, salt, and baking powder; stir until combined.
4. Pour in heavy cream and mix until dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times.
6. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Wild Garlic Oil for Drizzling
Wild garlic oil is a flavorful and aromatic condiment perfect for drizzling over vegetables, meats, or as a finishing touch for soups and salads. This recipe makes about 1/2 cup of oil, which can be stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) neutral-tasting oil, such as canola or grapeseed
– 1/4 cup (15 g) wild garlic leaves (or ramps)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, optional
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the oil over low heat.
2. Add the wild garlic leaves and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they have lost their bright green color and the oil has taken on a vibrant yellow hue.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
4. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
5. If desired, add salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wild Garlic and Lemon Roasted Potatoes
Wild Garlic and Lemon Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Transform your roasted potatoes with the bright flavors of wild garlic and a squeeze of lemon!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves wild garlic (or ramps), finely chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, wild garlic, and lemon juice until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender.
Wild Garlic and Ricotta Ravioli
Savor the essence of spring with this simple yet elegant ravioli recipe, where wild garlic and creamy ricotta come together to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh wild garlic (or scallions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
4. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with chopped wild garlic. Season with salt to taste.
5. Place small spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture onto one half of the pasta sheet. Fold the other half over to form ravioli.
6. Cook ravioli in boiling water for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve with your favorite sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Garlic and Bacon Quiche
This savory quiche is a perfect combination of earthy wild garlic and crispy bacon, making it a delicious addition to any brunch or dinner. With its flaky crust and creamy filling, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 2 cups of wild garlic leaves (chopped)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chopped wild garlic leaves to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
6. Arrange the cooked bacon in the pie crust, followed by the egg mixture.
7. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Wild Garlic and Herb Butter
Add a burst of wild garlic flavor to your bread or vegetables with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh wild garlic leaves (or substitute with regular garlic)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or dill)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the chopped wild garlic and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or roll into a log shape, wrapping in plastic wrap.
Cooking Time:
None! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes.
Wild Garlic and Asparagus Salad
This refreshing salad combines the bright flavors of wild garlic and asparagus, perfect for a light springtime meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. With its delicate balance of tangy and savory notes, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup wild garlic leaves (or scallions), chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted asparagus, wild garlic leaves, and white wine vinegar. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Garlic and Pea Puree Crostini
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful crostini, featuring the sweet essence of wild garlic and fresh peas. A perfect combination for a light and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves wild garlic (or ramps), chopped
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 crostini bread slices (store-bought or homemade)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree peas, olive oil, and wild garlic until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and blend until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange crostini slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Spread a spoonful of pea puree onto each crostini slice. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting the crostini)
Wild Garlic and Chorizo Flatbread
A flavorful and aromatic flatbread that combines the earthy sweetness of wild garlic with the spicy kick of chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves wild garlic, chopped
– 2 slices chorizo, thinly sliced
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped wild garlic.
7. Top with chorizo slices, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
10. Serve warm, sliced into wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Wild Garlic and Lemon Roasted Lamb
This recipe combines the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon with the earthy sweetness of wild garlic, perfectly complementing the rich taste of roasted lamb. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 leg of lamb (about 2 lbs), trimmed
– 4-6 sprigs of wild garlic, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together wild garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (depending on the size of the leg).
Summary
Spring into the world of flavor with these 20 wild garlic recipes! From classic pasta dishes to savory soups, and from breakfast treats to decadent desserts, these mouthwatering creations showcase the versatility and deliciousness of wild garlic. Discover how to add a burst of fresh flavor to your meals with wild garlic pesto pasta, creamy soup, or roasted chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting like frittata or scones, or something light and refreshing like hummus or salad, there’s something for everyone on this list.
