Delicious flowers that are safe to eat
When creating a scrumptious meal, it’s important to remember that we ‘eat with our eyes’ first. This means that when food looks good, it tastes that much better too. Nothing will add colour to your plate quite like fresh and delicious flowers. Of course, you can’t just pick any blooms. Here’s what you need to know about edible flowers.
Take care
There are some plants that are safe to eat while others can cause serious health complications. Some are even outright poisonous. Before taking a nibble on what you believe to be delicious flowers, make sure that you do plenty of research. It is also important to make sure that the flowers you plan on eating are not grown commercially. They will usually be grown with the help of various pesticides that can have a very harmful effect. Take extra special care when it comes to the stamen and pistols of flowers. While petals are often safe to consume, other parts of the plant might be dangerous. Make sure that you use freshly picked flowers and inspect them thoroughly for any little bugs. You can submerge them in fresh water for a few minutes just to be safe. Below you will find a list of some delicious floral treats.
Arugula
It’s not only the leaves that are scrumptious, but these delicious flowers are also loved for their nutty and peppery flavour. Rich in Vitamim A, C, K, potassium and flavonoids, you get a lot of nutrients out of each serving.
Basil
Like arugula, many people think of using just the leaves of this plant. The flowers have so much to offer in terms of flavour and they make the dish so much more appealing too. They are also rich in Vitamin A, C, magnesium, calcium, potassium and flavonoids.
Carnation
These delicious flowers are not just beautiful in a vase. They can really spruce up the design of your next delightful plating. They have plenty of Vitamin A and C plus they have a delicious clove-like flavour.
Chamomile
When we think of delicious flowers that offer amazing benefits, chamomile must certainly come to mind. These small, white blooms have a sweet flavour and they are known for their relaxation properties. Infused with hot water, these pretty flowers make for a lovely soothing tea.
Chrysanthemum
Like carnations, chrysanthemums are often associated with cut flower arrangements. Yes, they look great in a vase but these delicious flowers can also be safely consumed. Rich in Vitamin A, C, calcium and potassium, they are known for their peppery flavour.
Dandelion
Many people think of dandelions as they dry out and we blow them away into the wind. Of course, when they are still fresh and bright yellow, they do make one of the most delicious flowers of all. They have a very sweet flavour and they contain Vitamin A, potassium, B-complex and even iron!
With these delicious flowers in mind, you too can plan some of the most amazing meals. Whether you are cooking for your immediate family or inviting friends over, a beautiful plate will always make any meal that much more appealing.