Nasturtium

A flowering plant with buds, flowers, leaves, and stems that are edible. As an edible flower, the leaves and stems have a peppery flavor and can be added to salads and sandwiches. Butter, cream cheese and vinegar can be added to minced Nasturtium buds and the entire flower can be added to salads or used as a garnish. Nasturtiums can be purchased in specialty grocery stores. Avoid buying these flowers at a flower shop because they may have been treated with chemicals. The Nasturtium is also known as Indian Cress. When preparing, avoid washing unless the flowers have been exposed to chemicals. To wash only a few, place the flowers in a bowl of water and gently swirl or move the flowers around the water. Remove each flower and place them on a paper towel to dry. Larger quantities of flowers will require frequent changes of water.