Please do eat the roses—plus the violets, pansies and daylilies. Many easy-to-grow flowers are both beautiful and delicious, adding delicate flavors and bright colors to fresh or baked foods.
Petals are the tastiest part of most flowers. The white base of a rose petal can be bitter, so tear or cut it off first. But feel free to eat entire squash blossoms, nasturtiums, violets, sage, pansies, chives and violas.
Keep in mind, though, that not all flowers are edible, so nibble only on those types you know are safe to consume. And always be sure to double-check that they’re grown organically—no pesticides, please.
For the Table
The absolute easiest way to use edible flowers is as garnish on plates or on soups. The tastiest way? Mix them in salads, dips,…
