How long does it take to make Nasturtium Microgreen Pesto Pasta Delight?
This recipe takes approximately 20 min total.
20 min
· Serves 2
· Updated March 6, 2026
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Nasturtium microgreens are best added fresh as a finishing ingredient. This vibrant pasta dish features a zesty nasturtium microgreen pesto, inspired by fresh herb flavors akin to those at Mag's. Enjoy a unique twist on traditional pesto that's both nutritious and delicious.
This recipe takes approximately 20 min total.
Nasturtium microgreens work best as a fresh finishing ingredient, adding color, texture, and a just-cut flavor that stands out right before serving.
150g pasta of your choice
1 cup nasturtium microgreens
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a food processor, combine nasturtium microgreens, pine nuts, garlic, and salt. Pulse until finely chopped.
With the processor running, gradually add olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Stir in parmesan cheese if using and season with black pepper.
Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto and serve immediately with additional nasturtium leaves for garnish.
Nasturtium and nasturtium microgreens deliver distinctive peppery heat through glucosinolate-derived compounds — the same chemical class responsible for heat in radish and mustard microgreens. They are used as edible garnishes, flavor accents on proteins and composed plates, and as a visual element with their vivid green color.
• Nasturtium plants and microgreens contain glucosinolates and isothiocyanates — the same compound class found in brassica crops like radish and broccoli microgreens.
moderate evidence• Peppery heat intensity in nasturtium microgreens is linked to glucosinolate concentration, which varies by growing conditions and harvest timing.
moderate evidence• Nasturtium has been studied for vitamin C content in both the leaves and flowers.
limited evidence1. Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible Microgreens — Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012
2. Microgreens: Production, Shelf Life, and Bioactive Components — Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2017