An evergreen fine-dining trend, garnishing small plates or main meals with edible flowers is a great way to enhance flavours and the over-all dining experience.
‘When growing edible flowers, it is key that you pay close attention to the usage instructions on the pesticides to avoid possible toxicity.’
‘All pesticides have a waiting period between spraying and consuming so be sure to take note of how long you’ll need to wait to enjoy your edible flowers.
‘Remember to rinse them well once picked and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For maximum moisture and flavour, pick your edible flowers early in the morning,’ shared Life is a Garden.
Life is a Garden has selected a few popular options to consider. Take a look at them below.
Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum coronarium)
These bright coloured flowers will add a tangy, slightly bitter flavour to meals. Wash well and scatter a few petals over salads. The flower base is very bitter so best to only use the petals.
Chrysanthemum Tea. Picture: Life is a Garden
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)
These brilliant coloured flowers will add pops of colour to any salad and add a peppery flavour to the dish. These flowers will also look delightful when garnishing platters and sandwiches.
Fresh green salad with edible flowers nasturtium in wooden serving dish. Picture: Life is a Garden
Fuchsia (Fuchsia X hybrida)
The vivid colours and unusual shape of this flower make it an eye-catching garnish while the mild acidic flavour is the ideal partner for a variety of salads.
Edible Fuschia. Picture: Life is a Garden
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
The therapeutic benefits of lavender are no secret, but did you know you can use the soft, coloured lavender flowers as a garnish for an array of baked goods or even dress up your champagne?
Lavender muffins with ingredients - syrup, milk and flowers on blue textured background. French sweet food breakfast. Picture: Life is a Garden
