Edible flowers have long adorned our tables with their vibrant colors and delicate beauty. They always add a touch of elegance and whimsy to our homes, so I wanted to see what could be created with edible flowers. I began discovering years ago the world of possibilities that never seems to end. From salads to desserts, these blooms offer not only visual appeal but also unique tastes and textures. As renowned chefs like Jamie Oliver have attested, "Edible flowers can transform the simplest dish into a work of art." Edible flowers versatility extends beyond the kitchen, with DIY enthusiasts incorporating them into candles, bath products, and more. While my other article delves into the world of DIY flower crafts which you can read here, in this article we will focus on how edible flowers can make any dish more beautiful and exciting. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, creating a memorable dessert, or searching for the perfect gift, edible flowers add a special touch that elevates every occasion. Let's discover the enchanting world of edible flowers together, learn about some popular creations, and explore eight delicious recipes that showcase their beauty and help add an unexpected smile to everyone's plates.
Which common flowers are edible? Many common flowers are edible, including pansies, roses, violets, marigolds, and nasturtiums. However, it's essential to ensure that the flowers you consume are indeed organic, edible and have not been treated with chemicals.
What are the top 10 edible flowers? The top 10 edible flowers include pansies, roses, violets, nasturtiums, calendula, borage, lavender, chive blossoms, elderflowers, and dandelions. Make sure to only eat organic and pesticide free edible floral options and support a local farm or small business wild flower farm. If you are eager to start creating you can choose from some dried edible flowers here.
Which plant flower is edible? Numerous plants produce edible flowers, such as herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano, to name a few as well as vegetables like squash blossoms and broccoli florets.
What flowers are safe for charcuterie? Edible flowers commonly used for charcuterie boards include pansies, nasturtiums, chive blossoms, and marigolds, adding visual interest and a pop of color to the spread. There are plenty more to choose from but these are just a few for you to start with.
What flowers are safe to put on a cake? Flowers like organic and pesticide free roses, pansies, violets, and lavender are safe options for decorating cakes, provided they are pesticide-free and thoroughly cleaned.
Can you eat grocery store roses? While some grocery store roses are technically edible I never recommend eating anything like this since it's crucial to ensure they have not been treated with chemicals. It's safest to source edible flowers from reputable organic and pesticide free suppliers or grow them yourself in your home. If you would like to learn more about this I have another article here to inspire you to grow plants, sprouts, herbs and flowers in your home.
How do you find edible flowers? Edible flowers can be found at specialty grocery stores, farmer's markets, online businesses like this farm and local garden centers. Ensure they are labeled as organic, edible and free from pesticides.
What is the best edible flower? The best edible flower is subjective and depends on personal taste preferences. Organic pansies are popular for their vibrant colors and mild flavor, while organic and pesticide free roses offer a delicate floral taste.
What flower tastes like honey? Borage flowers are known for their subtle honey-like flavor, making them a delightful addition to salads and beverages.
What are the easiest edible flowers to grow? Marigolds, nasturtiums, and calendula are among the easiest edible flowers to grow, requiring minimal maintenance and thriving in various climates. You can order some heirloom seeds here.
Are peony flowers edible? Peony flowers are not consumed, as they can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested in large quantities. It's best to admire their beauty in the garden rather than on the plate.
Are all pansies edible? While many pansy varieties are edible, it's essential to ensure they have not been treated with chemicals. Look for pansies labeled specifically for culinary use and opt for organic.
Are rose petals safe to eat? Rose petals are safe to eat as long as they are free from pesticides and other chemicals. Choose organic roses or those specifically labeled for culinary purposes from your local flower farm or help support a small business organic farm.
Are snapdragons edible? Snapdragons are technically edible but are primarily used for ornamental purposes due to their bitter taste. It's best to enjoy their vibrant blooms in the garden rather than on the plate.
What flowers are not edible for humans? Some flowers are toxic to humans and should not be consumed under any circumstances. Examples include oleander, foxglove, and lily of the valley but there are MANY more so please double check everything before you choose to want to use anything before touching them or making food with them.
What are the tastiest edible flowers? Tastes vary, but some of the tastiest edible flowers include borage, lavender, chive blossoms, and nasturtiums, each offering unique flavors that enhance culinary creations.
Now, let's dive into nine delightful recipes featuring edible flowers, each carefully crafted to showcase the beauty and flavor of these floral treasures. From tantalizing appetizers, entrees to mouthwatering desserts, these recipes promise to inspire your culinary creativity and elevate your dining experience. Get ready to enjoy a culinary journey filled with vibrant colors, delicate aromas, and irresistible flavors as we explore the enchanting world of edible flowers through these delectable dishes.
The Yummiest Shortbread Cookie Recipe with Edible Flowers
Indulge in the irresistible delight of homemade shortbread cookies adorned with delicate edible flowers. This recipe should create a buttery taste with a subtle crispy edge, making it a favorite treat for any occasion.
To prepare these cookies, start by beating butter until smooth, then add sugar, vanilla, salt, and flour until well combined. After refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes, roll it out and cut it into circles. Bake until golden brown, then let them cool to room temperature. Unlike traditional shortbread cookies, these are elegantly decorated with edible flowers, adding a burst of color and flavor without the need for icing. Whether enjoyed as a snack or served at gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress. And the best part? They can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks, making them perfect for advance preparation. So go ahead, elevate your cookies with these exquisite shortbread edible flower cookies.
Recipe: Shortbread Cookie Recipe with Edible Flowers that you can buy here
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Edible flowers for decoration
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth using an electric mixer.
- Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter, and continue beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a biscuit cutter to cut out circles from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Press edible flowers gently onto the tops of the cookies, arranging them as desired.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, serve and enjoy these delightful shortbread cookies adorned with beautiful edible flowers.
A Delicious Alternative Pansy Sugar Cookies:
Indulge in the whimsical charm of Pansies Sugar Cookies, where soft and flavorful sugar cookies meet delicate pansies for a delightful treat. Each cookie is adorned with vibrant pansies, creating a stunning fusion of flavor and floral beauty.
Recipe: Pansies Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup Butter, softened (Plant based alternative is Miyoko's butter - its fabulous!)
- 1/4 cup Organic Honey (I recommend getting honey in glass jars)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 Large Organic Pasture Raised Egg (I recommend vegan options like: Aquafaba, Chickpea Flour, Flaxseed meal, Tofu, Ripe Bananas, Applesauce, Coconut Yogurt, Chia Egg, Baking soda with Organic Apple Cider Vinegar - NOT BRAGGS Anymore)
- 1 teaspoon Stevia Extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest
- 1 teaspoon Organic Baking Powder
- 2 Tablespoons Organic Cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups Organic White Wheat Flour, plus more for rolling
- 1 small Organic Pasture Raised Egg White + 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Organic Lemon Juice
- 2 Tablespoons Xylitol or Erythritol
- Fresh organic and pesticide free Pansies, gently washed and patted dry
Directions:
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, cream together the butter and honey until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla, egg, stevia, and lemon zest. Mix well and scrape down the bowl to ensure full incorporation.
- Add the baking powder, cornstarch, and flour, and mix until incorporated. The dough may be a touch sticky but manageable.
- Lightly flour your work surface with more flour and roll out the dough about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out cookies and transfer to prepared cooking sheets.
- In a small bowl, combine egg white with fresh lemon juice. Gently arrange pansies on the cookies and lightly brush the tops with the egg wash.
- Bake cookies for 7-12 minutes (depending on your cookie cutter size). Sprinkle with xylitol when warm out of the oven for extra shine!
- Enjoy cookies warm or at room temperature. Cookies will last 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 3 weeks.
Floral Laced Ravioli with Cheesy Herb-Ricotta Filling:
Elevate your culinary experience with Floral Laced Ravioli, featuring a delectable herb-ricotta filling embraced by delicate pasta sheets adorned with soft herb flowers. This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish to impress guests or indulge in a gourmet dining experience.
Recipe: Floral Laced Ravioli with Cheesy Herb-Ricotta Filling
Ingredients:
- Herb-Ricotta Filling:
- 8 ounces grass fed and grass finished organic whole milk ricotta (Vegan cheese options are below)
- 2 ounces grated Asiago cheese (I prefer vegan cheese options like Violife or Miyoko's )
- 1 ounce grated Parmesan cheese (Vegan options above)
- 1 organic garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced organic chives
- 1 tablespoon minced organic thyme
- 1 tablespoon minced organic basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pasta:
- 1 recipe pasta dough
- Semolina flour for sprinkling
- 1 large egg plus 1 tablespoon water, beaten together (I prefer vegan options)
- Variety of soft herb flowers and soft herb leaves
- Sauce and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (Mykonos Butter is delicious for a vegan alternative)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh organic and pesticide free herb flowers
- Grated Parmesan (Delicious vegan alternatives listed in the article)
Instructions:
- Prepare the herb-ricotta filling by mixing all ingredients together in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and refrigerate.
- Roll out the pasta dough into thin sheets and place herb flowers and leaves on one-third of the strips. Cover with another sheet of pasta and roll together until thin.
- Cut the pasta into strips, place dollops of filling, and cover with another sheet of pasta. Cut into ravioli shapes.
- Cook the ravioli in boiling salted water for 3 minutes. In a skillet, melt butter until browned.
- Transfer cooked ravioli to the skillet with browned butter, season with salt and pepper, and serve garnished with herb flowers and grated Parmesan. Enjoy!
Rainbow Unicorn Crepes with Glitter Buttermilk Syrup:
Embark on a whimsical culinary journey with Rainbow Unicorn Crepes, featuring vibrant colors reminiscent of a mystical galaxy. These crepes are not only visually stunning but also tantalizingly delicious, especially when paired with the luscious golden glitter buttermilk syrup, creating a magical treat fit for any occasion.
Recipe: Galaxy Unicorn Crepes with Glitter Buttermilk Syrup
Ingredients:
- Your favorite crepe batter
- Gel food dye (Fuchsia, navy, turquoise, and violet)
- Buttermilk syrup
- Edible gold glitter
Instructions:
- Prepare your favorite crepe batter and divide it into separate bowls. Dye each portion with gel food colors to create vibrant galaxy-inspired shades.
- Cook the crepes in a hot skillet until golden brown on each side.
- Drizzle the crepes with the luscious buttermilk syrup infused with edible gold glitter for a touch of magic.
- Serve these Galaxy Unicorn Crepes as a delightful and enchanting dessert that will mesmerize both children and adults alike. Enjoy the celestial flavors!
Primrose and Pansy Coconut-Oat Balls:
Elevate your snack game with Primrose and Pansy Coconut-Oat Balls, delightful treats bursting with floral flavors and wholesome ingredients. These no-bake balls offer a perfect blend of coconut, oats, and the delicate essence of primrose and pansy flowers, making them both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Recipe: Primrose and Pansy Coconut-Oat Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 cup diced flower petals (primrose and pansy)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
- 1-2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: Icing sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, melt coconut oil, honey, salt, vanilla extract, cardamom, and lemon zest together.
- Once melted, turn the heat to low and add oats and shredded coconut, stirring to combine. Cook for a couple of minutes until the ingredients soften.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, fold in the diced flower petals until evenly distributed.
- Shape the mixture into balls using your hands and compress tightly. Alternatively, press the mixture into a small baking dish for bars.
- If making bars, refrigerate the mixture overnight, until set. For balls, refrigerate for the same duration.
- Once set, cut the mixture into bars if applicable, or simply garnish the balls with shredded coconut and a sprinkle of icing sugar.
- Enjoy these delightful Primrose and Pansy Coconut-Oat Balls as a wholesome and floral-infused snack!
Pansy Salad:
Brighten up your meal with a burst of color and flavor with Pansy Salad, featuring fresh arugula and vibrant pansies. This delightful salad not only adds visual appeal to your table but also incorporates edible flowers, such as pansies, which thrive year-round, making it a perfect choice for any season.
Recipe: Pansy Salad
Ingredients:
- 6 cups baby arugula
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, shaved
- Seeds of 1 pomegranate
- Handful of assorted fresh herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1-2 ounces creamy goat cheese (or crushed pistachios for a vegan option)
- Pansies, stems removed
Blood Orange Vinaigrette:
- Juice of 1 blood orange (about 1/4 cup)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons champagne vinegar (or other mild white vinegar)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Whisk together the ingredients for the blood orange vinaigrette in a small bowl.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the baby arugula, thinly sliced apple, shaved carrot, pomegranate seeds, and fresh herbs.
- Toss the salad with the prepared blood orange vinaigrette until evenly coated.
- Crumble creamy goat cheese over the salad and garnish with edible pansies.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Pansy Salad as a refreshing addition to any meal!
Setorii
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