Watercress: The superfood you can grow right on your windowsill
Looking for a way to enrich your diet with an exceptionally healthy and flavorful vegetable? Get to know watercress— a true vitamin bomb that can revolutionize your approach to cooking.
6:33 PM EDT, August 5, 2024
Watercress is a true wealth of nutritional and flavor value. It has a spicy aroma and taste, making it a perfect addition to various dishes, from sandwiches to salads. Moreover, fresh watercress can be easily grown at home, making it even more attractive to healthy food lovers.
Why is watercress so special?
Scientific studies have confirmed that watercress is one of the healthiest vegetables in the world. It contains numerous vitamins, minerals, and other valuable substances that positively affect our health.
- Vitamin treasure trove: Watercress is a true concentrate of vitamins. It contains more vitamin C than citrus fruits and surpasses carrots in beta-carotene content. This strengthens the immune system, improves vision, and has antioxidant properties.
- Source of minerals: This vegetable is rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium, which are essential for the proper functioning of the body.
- Anti-cancer properties: The isothiocyanates found in watercress have strong anti-cancer properties, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Watercress has anti-inflammatory effects, thanks to the presence of glucosinolates, which can help alleviate many ailments.
Watercress in the kitchen – How to use it?
Fresh watercress leaves have a characteristic, slightly spicy flavor. They are perfect as an addition to:
- Salads: Watercress will add freshness and originality to your salads.
- Sandwiches: Combine them with cottage cheese, hard-boiled egg, or cold cuts to create delicious and healthy sandwiches.
- Soups: Add a few watercress leaves to a creamy soup for an aromatic and nutritious meal.
- Egg dishes: Watercress goes perfectly with scrambled eggs, omelets, or fried eggs.
- Roasted potatoes: Sprinkle chopped watercress on roasted potatoes for a tasty and aromatic side dish.
How to grow watercress at home?
Growing a watercress at home is extremely simple. Just buy the seeds and sow them in a small pot or box filled with soil. Watercress does not require special conditions; just provide it with light and water it regularly.
Watercress pesto – a healthy alternative
If you are looking for an original idea for using watercress, try making pesto. Blend lightly blanched watercress leaves with walnuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and salt. This delicious and healthy pesto tastes excellent with pasta, sandwiches, or meats.
