![Ashleigh Smith + photo](https://cdn.shopify.com/oxygen-v2/26990/12114/24902/727503/build/_assets/pfp-ashleigh-smith-A4EB6OHQ.webp?width=50&height=50)
Ashleigh Smith
![sugar cookies with a natural flower topping](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2016/2681/articles/MicrosoftTeams-image_20_a28ff615-fc4b-4952-b0eb-d45c7aa835ea.jpg?v=1638295580&width=100&height=35&crop=center)
Sure, we are used to eating the plants we grow. But not everyone is used to eating the flowers. Many plants produce both edible vegetation and blossoms that are enjoyed in soups, salads, baked goods, and more. Just be sure you are consuming edible parts of edible plants.
Some of the most common blossoms to use for culinary purposes are:
- Impatiens
- Johnny Jump Ups
- Lavender
- Lemon Bergamot
- Lilac
- Lovage
- Marigold
- Cat Mint
- Mint
- Nasturtium
- Pansy
- Pea (vegetable)
A Word of Caution
Even though leaves and the blossoms of a plant may be edible, the whole plant may not be. It is important to be 100% sure not only the plant you are going to consume is okay, but that the specific parts you are planning to eat are edible.
For example tomatoes are one of the most common fruits to eat, however you should skip eating their foliage because of toxic alkaloids that naturally occur in them.
To avoid some of these issues it is a good practice to remove the stamens and pistils of any flower before consuming. You should also avoid eating any blossoms that have had pesticides sprayed on them at any time.
If you would like to try cooking with some fresh blossoms we have a great Fried Squash Blossom recipe you can try out. These are great as an appetizer, party food, or game day snack. Pair it with a nice quesadilla for a full meal.
For use in baked goods it is recommended that you start using dried flowers because they are easier to work with.
To use fresh flowers start by cleaning them in a lukewarm water bath. Soak them for a few minutes then remove them from the water with a strainer. Let them dry flat on a paper towel for at least 10 minutes. Make sure there are no bugs on them. Add the fresh flowers to a batter, or use as a decorative topping.
About the Author
![Ashleigh Smith's + photo](https://cdn.shopify.com/oxygen-v2/26990/12114/24902/727503/build/_assets/pfp-ashleigh-smith-A4EB6OHQ.webp?width=150&height=150)
I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
2 comments
Mandy
I love nasturtiums. Great article.
Heather Becker
I love being able to use various veggies and flowers in my meals. I have put nasturtium in salads, made dandelion jelly, and use all types of herbs! Great article!
Further Reading
What Does the Updated USDA Zone Map Mean?
Written By Lara Wadsworth You may have heard a rumor about how the USDA has updated the zone map. The rumors are true! In November of 2023, the USDA released an updated hardiness zone map. What are the practical implications of this for you as a farmer...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-07-107 min read4Nurturing The Fierce Green Fire: Aldo Leopold
Written By Lara Wadsworth “When we begin to see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.” Such were Aldo Leopold’s words in his most popular book, A Sand County Almanac. This book is now known as one of the ...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-07-096 min read0Ron Finley: Empowering Urban Gardeners
Written By Lara Wadsworth Have you ever wondered why gardening is often associated with retired individuals or hippies these days? I often do, and think this should change. Ron Finley, a Los Angeles-based fashion designer and urban gardener, also think...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-07-026 min read0Rachel Carson: The Mother of Environmentalism
Written By Lara Wadsworth It is common knowledge these days that pesticides should be used with caution. While conventional farmers continue to use them frequently, they realize the danger of careless applications. Today, pesticides are applied in much...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-06-257 min read0