Spring is Here! Time to Eat!

Hello!

Spring is, I think, finally here!  My windows are open, the sun is out earlier and longer, the birds are singing, plants are poking up and flowers are blooming!
As a forager, spring is an incredibly exciting time.  Finally, we have something growing outside that we can eat!  And one of my favorite spring time edibles in purple dead nettle (Lamium purpureum). 
Purple dead nettle is a member of the mint family - but don't let that fool you.  It has no minty flavor and no strong scent.  In fact, it's a pretty mild tasting green.  The leaves tend to be a bit fuzzy, which might take a minute to get used to, but trust me, it's worth it.  While I enjoy the mild grassy flavor of this plant by itself, some people prefer to juice it, or add it to their smoothies.  I like to eat it right out of the yard, or toss it into my salads.
The whole plant is edible, leaves, stem, flowers (the little pink/purple flowers taste like sweet nectar!) and all.
Gardeners and landscapers tend to not be a fan of this non-native invasive species.  Once it gets a foot hold, it can really take off.  However, it has a short lived growing season, so once you spot it, take advantage; it won't be around for very long. 
While it is most often times referred to as purple dead nettle (another common name being arch angel flower) it is not closely related to the nettle, and it will not sting you - eat it with abandon.  This plant is high it antioxidants and trace minerals which makes it a very healthy (and tasty!) addition to your spring time meals.