Edible Flowers — Area 2 Farms (2024)

In this guide, we are going to cover all the need-to-know details about edible flowers, including health benefits, recipes, and facts that you can share with your friends and family.

What are edible flowers?
What do edible flowers pair well with?
Recipes that use edible flowers
What are the health benefits of edible flowers?

What are edible flowers?

Edible flowers are flowers that can be consumed safely by humans. They are typically used as a garnish or added to salads, teas, and other culinary creations for their color, flavor, and nutritional value.

Here are some common edible flowers:

Roses
Lavender
Chamomile
See Also
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Marigolds
Nasturtiums
Pansies
Violets
Chrysanthemums

It's important to note that not all flowers are edible, and some can be toxic or cause allergic reactions. It's best to do your research or consult with an expert before consuming any flowers.

Edible facts

Here are some more fun facts to feast on:

Edible flowers have been used in cooking and medicine for thousands of years, with evidence dating back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
In some cultures, flowers are considered a delicacy and are often used in traditional dishes and desserts.
Some flowers, such as lavender and chamomile, have a calming effect and are often used in teas and other beverages to promote relaxation.
In some cultures, certain flowers are believed to have aphrodisiac properties and are often used in romantic dishes and desserts.

What do edible flowers pair well with?

Edible flowers can add a beautiful touch and unique flavor to many different types of dishes. Here are some food and drink pairing suggestions for edible flowers:

Salads: Edible flowers pair well with fresh salads, adding color and flavor.
co*cktails: Many edible flowers have a delicate flavor that can add a subtle touch to co*cktails.
Desserts: Edible flowers can add a beautiful touch to desserts, such as cakes, cupcakes, and ice cream.
Tea: Edible flowers can be used to make flavorful and aromatic teas.
Savory dishes: Edible flowers can be used in savory dishes such as soups, stews, and pasta dishes.

Recipes that use edible flowers

Edible flowers are always a show-stopper, whether as a result of personal preference or cultural background, they can beautify any dish.

Lavender lemonade is a great twist on a classic, in a large pitcher, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, and dried lavender flowers for a delicious and refreshing beverage.

Rose petal jam offers a spring-like taste and scent that will fill up your home and belly, simply massage sugar and the rose petals together to release the sweet oil and add it to your favorite jam.

What are the health benefits of edible flowers?

Brains and beauty–edible flowers are the whole package. Many edible flowers are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to meals.

Here are some of the benefits of incorporating edible flowers into your diet:

Packed with antioxidants: Edible flowers are a great source of antioxidants, which protect your body against oxidative stress and free radicals that can damage your cells.
Contains anti-inflammatory properties: Certain edible flowers, such as calendula and chamomile, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Promotes digestive health: Edible flowers like lavender and hibiscus can have a soothing effect on the digestive system and may help relieve digestive issues like bloating, gas, and cramps.
Supports immune system: Edible flowers like elderflower and nasturtium contain compounds that can help boost the immune system.
Provides mood-boosting effects: Some edible flowers, such as lavender and rose petals, have calming and relaxing effects that can help reduce stress and anxiety.