Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Lambsquarter

Chenopodium album Allergen-Free
Lambsquarter

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Amaranthaceae
  • Primary Cuisine North American
  • Seasonality Late Spring|Early Summer
  • Source Lambsquarter plant

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

An edible wild green, also known as pigweed, with tender leaves and a mild, earthy taste reminiscent of spinach, rich in nutrients.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Slightly bitter, Mildly Salty
TextureTender, Succulent, Soft
AromaGrassy, Green, Mild
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 cup (30g)
Calories32 kcal
Total Fat0.4 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein4 g
Total Carbohydrate6 g
Dietary Fiber2.5 g
Total Sugars0.5 g
Calcium300 mg
Iron3 mg
Potassium500 mg

Chef’s Secret

Blanch lambsquarter briefly before sautéing or adding to dishes to reduce any potential bitterness and soften the leaves.

Substitutions

Best Match

Spinach

1:1

Closest substitute in taste, texture, and cooking applications.

Swiss Chard

1:1

Similar leafy green with a slightly stronger earthy flavor.

Kale

1:1

More robust texture and bitter notes, but nutritionally comparable.

Beet Greens

1:1

Offers a similar earthy flavor profile and tender texture when cooked.

Buying Guide

Harvest young, tender leaves before the plant flowers for the best flavor and texture. Avoid plants grown near roadsides.

Flavor Pairings

Garlic Olive Oil Lemon Eggs Cheese Bacon Onions Mushrooms