Yes, dandelions are safe to eatand theyre full of flavor and nutrients, too.
You may be surprised to learn that the answer to “Can you eat dandelions?”
is a definite yes.
Credit:OlyaSolodenko / Getty Images
OlyaSolodenko / Getty Images
Can You Eat Dandelions?
Fresh dandelions can be found at farmers' markets and some grocery stores.
If you plan to pick wild dandelions, you must be aware of your surroundings.
Credit:WMASTER890 / Getty Images
Dandelion roots are typicallyharvested in late fall and winter, leaves in early spring, and flowers in summer.
Dandelions can be very gritty or sandy, so you should wash them carefully before using.
What Do Dandelions Taste Like?
Dandelions are part of thesunflower familyand are related to lettuce, chicory, and endive.
Like chicory and endive, dandelion leaves are earthy and bitter.
Because younger leaves contain fewer bitter compounds, they taste milder.
Plants are really chemical machines, chemical factoriesthey make so many chemicals for defense.
Dandelions have this bitterness to them,just like arugulaand kale.
West adds that different parts of the dandelion have distinct flavor profiles.
Try subbing them in for othercreamed greensor your favoritepesto recipe.
Heat butter, vegetable or olive oil, or bacon grease and stir until they just turn brown.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
