Edible Flowers Almost Too Pretty to Eat
The most common (and safest edible flowers) are nasturtium, pansy, violet, Johnny-jump-up, calendula, chive, and sage. These flowers are easily grown without the use of chemicals or pesticides. Many roses are delicious, but you need to be sure they are grown organically. A good rule of thumb is: If you cannot positively identify a flower as edible, don't eat it. Also, if you have asthma, hayfever, or other allergies, do not eat flowers.
Never eat flowers from a nursery, garden center, or florist; they are likely to have chemical residues that concentrate in the flowers.
Pansy
Pansies span every color of the rainbow, so you can have fun decorating food. Plan a party months ahead and grow pansies to match your decor, best outfit, or favorite color. Their flavor is slightly minty. Try this flower baked into a cookie, as a salad additive, or as a wintergreen-tasting dessert garnish.
Related: Try Pansies in These Garden-Fresh Salads
Nasturtium
Nasturtiums are one of the most commonly eaten flowers. The flower may be vivid yellow, orange, or red as well as muted tones and bicolors. Both the leaves and the flowers have a peppery flavor and are best eaten uncooked. Toss petals into salads, top a sandwich, or make a spicy appetizer.
Try This Recipe: Nasturtium Poppers
Rose
Roses not only look beautiful in a bouquet, but pair well in some delicious dishes. Roses may be tasteless, sweet, perfumed, or slightly spicy. Chop the petals and mix with sugar. Let them infuse for a week and use for baking and desserts.
Try These Recipes:
Strawberry, Mango & Rose Pavlova
Borage
Borage's star-shape blossoms practically fall off the plant when they are ready to eat. They have a mild cucumber flavor that is delicious in lemonade.
Related: Try Borage in These Lemonade Recipes
Tulip
Tulips have a wonderful crunch, especially at the base of the petals. The flavor ranges from pea- to beanlike. Use tulip petals as a low-calorie substitute for chips with dip. Be cautious, though—the bulbs on this lovely flower are NOT edible.
Related: Dip Tulip Petals Into These Delicious Dips
Pinks and other dianthus have a sweet, clove-like taste. Do not eat whole—remove individual petals. Infuse petals in water for tea, or top a cracker and cheese with several petals. This flower also makes a delectable sorbet.
Related: Grow an Herbal Tea Garden
Marigold
'Tangerine Gem' marigold and the other Gem hybrids are the only good-tasting marigolds, with a citrusy tarragon flavor. Use petals in deviled eggs or sprinkle on soups or pasta dishes.
Try These Recipes:
Lilac
Lilacs are another variable flower, with a grassy taste or a delightful perfumed flavor. Use in chicken dishes and fruit salads or as an infused water upgrade.
Related: Try Lilac in One of These Fruit Salad Recipes
More Edible Flower Varieties
Note: Use only flowers that have been grown without pesticides or other chemicals.
