Edible Flower Garden Salad

Transform your salad into a work of art with this Edible Flower Garden Salad. Featuring fresh greens, colorful edible flowers, and flavorful garnishes, this dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Whether for a spring gathering, a light appetizer, or a statement dish, this salad brings natural beauty and elegance to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Salad Base:

• 2 cups fresh greens (arugula, baby spinach, frisée)
• 1/4 cup edible flowers (pansies, nasturtiums, violets, or borage)
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced radishes
• 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds

For the Creamy Garnish:

• 2 tbsp whipped goat cheese or ricotta cheese (optional)

For the Lemon-Honey Vinaigrette:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For Additional Texture:

• 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds
• Microgreens (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Greens:

   • Rinse and dry the fresh greens thoroughly. Arrange them in an organic, flowing shape on a large, flat plate or platter to mimic the look of a lush garden.

2. Add the Flowers:

   • Gently rinse the edible flowers and pat them dry. Scatter them across the greens, spacing them evenly to create a balanced and colorful display.

3. Incorporate the Fresh Ingredients:

   • Tuck cherry tomato halves and radish slices between the greens and flowers. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the plate for bursts of color and sweetness.

4. Add Creamy Elements:

   • Using a small spoon, place small dollops of whipped goat cheese or ricotta around the salad. This adds creaminess and complements the fresh flavors.

5. Drizzle with Vinaigrette:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the vinaigrette lightly over the salad, letting it enhance the natural colors and flavors.

6. Finish with Texture:

   • Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds over the plate for crunch. Garnish with a few sprigs of microgreens for an added touch of freshness.

Tips for Success:

• Use only edible flowers that are free of pesticides and safe for consumption.
• Prepare the vinaigrette just before serving to maintain its fresh, zesty flavor.

This Edible Flower Garden Salad is a celebration of nature’s beauty and flavors. With its vibrant colors, delicate textures, and elegant presentation, it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a delightful dining experience.