They are not just pesky lawn weeds - dandelion greens are actually a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be used in summer salads, boiled and used in a stir-fry, or picked from the root and roasted as a coffee substitute.
As you most likely know, they grow just about everywhere, so why not be a little adventurous and try eating them! For the best greens I’d recommend grabbing some from your local farmer’s market and testing out a recipe or two.
If you like slightly bitter greens, you’ll love this quick, spicy side dish.
Devilish Dandelions
1. Wash and cut dandelion greens into 2 to 3 inch pieces.
2. While washing the greens, bring a pot of salted water to boil to blanch the greens.
3. Blanch for 2-3 minutes then rinse in cold water.
4. Squeeze out excess water. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium high heat.
5. Add a heap of chopped garlic (2-3 cloves) and stir. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add the cooked greens, some hot pepper flakes and salt to taste.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes and voila!
8. Squeeze a little lemon juice and some Parmesan cheese shavings to top them off.
* Optional and not local: Before you add the greens, throw in some uncooked shrimp. Delicious!
