Edible Flowers: 10 Delicious Ways to Add Them to Your Recipes

1. Garnish for Salads
   Add petals from nasturtiums or pansies to fresh salads for a splash of colour and a peppery or sweet flavour. Their vibrant hues can elevate the presentation and taste of simple greens.

2. Floral Infused Beverages
   Create herbal teas or cocktails infused with lavender or hibiscus flowers. Simply steep the flowers in hot water for tea or muddle them into cocktails for a fragrant twist.

3. Floral Ice Cubes
   Freeze edible flowers like violets or rose petals in ice cube trays with water. These floral ice cubes can add a delightful touch to drinks and brighten up summer gatherings.

4. Floral Soups
   Incorporate edible flowers such as chive blossoms or borage into soups for added flavour and visual appeal. They can be used as a garnish or blended into pureed soups for a unique taste.

5. Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
   Enhance a cheese board with edible flowers like marigolds or chive flowers. They provide a beautiful contrast to the various cheeses and meats, making the spread even more appealing.

6. Floral Jams and Preserves
   Use rose petals or jasmine flowers to make delightful jams. Infuse them with berries for a fragrant spread perfect for toast or pastries.

7. Baked Goods Decoration
   Top cakes, cupcakes, or pastries with edible flowers such as violas or calendula. Their delicate petals make for an elegant decoration that’s also safe to eat.

8. Floral Pasta
   Incorporate flower petals like beetroot leaves or marigold in homemade pasta dough. Not only will the pasta gain a unique flavour, but it will also have a stunning appearance.

9. Floral Vinegars
   Infuse white wine or apple cider vinegar with edible flowers, such as elderflower or chamomile, to create a fragrant dressing ingredient or marinade with a floral note.

10. Floral Ice Creams and Sorbets
    Blend flower petals like lavender or rose with cream or fruit bases to create unique ice cream or sorbet flavours. Their subtle taste will surprise and delight your guests.

Using edible flowers in your cooking not only enhances flavour but also brings a touch of nature’s beauty to your dishes. Ensure you choose flowers that are specifically marked as edible, and enjoy the delightful flavours and visual appeal they bring to your culinary creations.