Wild Spinach
(Also frequently called Lambsquarters)
While nutrient data varies depending on soil location/composition~ wild spinach is, consistently, one of the more nutrient dense wild greens. It is high in vitamins A & C, riboflavin, calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, manganese and copper. With a smooth taste, that entirely resembles domesticated spinach, it is one of the easier greens to incorporate into your diet if ‘bitter’ is not (yet;)) your ‘thang.’
The first two leaves on a wild spinach plant, after sprouting, are straight with a rounded tip and longer than the second two- which are wider at the base. The leaves eventually become ‘toothed’ along the margins and, giving reason to occasionally being called ‘goosefoot,’ take on the appearance of waterfowl’s webbed feet. The size of the wild spinach plant can vary from a few inches to several feet depending on it’s story; nutrients, water, competition, where it’s at in the growing season, etc…
Wild spinach does have a toxic look alike, so the following is a very important identifying characteristic: the whole plant is covered with a fine dusting of crystalline powder. This powder is more dense and noticeable at the growing tips of the plant. You can wipe your finger across the leaves and rub it between your fingers- it both looks and feels like (very) finely ground salt.
Wild spinach is one of those dream plants for a forager. It produces plenty of greens, it is convenient to gather, and it’s mild flavor makes it very palatable. Yay, spinach!!! To collect, wait until the plants have several leaves- snap off at the tips, stems and all…wherever it will break easily. Instead of gathering all of the plants in a concentrated area, thin the patch by being selective- this will support the remaining greens to grow in stronger.
Wild spinach can be eaten raw- beautifully mixes with other greens in a quick salad….or it can be cooked in any way that domesticated spinach can/would be (though it tends to ‘cook down’ and clump together in the same way that spinach does, as well.)
*blending nutrient~dense leafy greens with antioxidant and water~rich fruits into a ‘green smoothie’ is an easy and incredible way to boost your health and vitality…
Wild Spinach & Apple Smoothie
2 handfuls wild spinach greens
1 head romaine lettuce
1-2 Granny Smith apples, cut into chunks
1 banana (optional, omit if you have lower glycemic needs)
stevia, vanilla, to taste
Add just enough water to blend until smooth & Enjoy!
(village voice, 2011)