Ah, dandelions. Whether you love them or hate them, you’ve got to admit they’re incredibly resilient. Despite our best efforts to banish them from our yards, these cheerful little flowers just keep coming back.
Lately, though, more and more people are seeing them in a different light. Instead of asking, “How do I get rid of dandelions?” the question has become, “What can I do with all these dandelions?”
Well, let me tell you, the answer is: lots.
Foraging is becoming more popular, and dandelions offer an easy, accessible starting point. These vibrant, sunny flowers are easy to spot, and even a child can identify them. Plus, dandelions are so abundant that over-foraging them is nearly impossible. For anyone trying to eliminate them, it’s clear: pick one, and three more will pop up.
Now, if you’re still bent on removing dandelions, here’s a helpful tool for that. But let’s focus on what you can do with these hardy plants instead.
Dandelions have been used medicinally for centuries. Their bitter leaves and roots are known for stimulating appetite and cleansing the liver. While scientific studies are limited on their medicinal efficacy, they remain a staple in folk remedies.
Nutritionally, though, they’re a powerhouse. Dandelions are packed with vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and fiber. And the best part? They’re free!
But the real charm of dandelions is how versatile they are in the kitchen. From the flowers to the roots, every part is edible. This spring, go ahead and gather a basket, pick as many as you can, and start exploring all the ways you can use them – from eating to wearing to drinking!
Know Your Dandelions
Before you dive in, just a few things to keep in mind. Avoid picking dandelions close to the road as they may pick up dirt and exhaust. Also, only harvest from areas free of pesticides or herbicides – your own backyard is often a safe bet.
Although dandelions are generally considered safe to eat, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before using them medicinally, especially if you’re pregnant or nursing.
What About the Bees?
It’s time to bust the myth that dandelions are bees’ primary food source in spring. They’re not. Dandelions may be a food source, but they aren’t the first or the best option for bees.
Which Part Can You Eat?
The short answer: all of it. From the yellow petals to the leafy greens to the long taproot, every part of the dandelion is edible.
Some parts taste better at different times of the year. The leaves are less bitter early in the spring, before they flower. If you’re aiming to make dandelion capers, pick the buds early in spring as well. The roots, for maximum nutrients, are best harvested in the fall. And the flowers, well, they don’t stick around long, so pick them while you can!
Taming the Bitter Greens
If you want to enjoy dandelion greens beyond the early spring, you can reduce their bitterness. Try soaking the leaves in cold water with a teaspoon of salt overnight, then rinse them before use. Alternatively, blanch them in boiling salted water for two minutes, then transfer them to an ice-water bath. Both methods will help tame that bitterness.
25 Things to Make With Dandelions
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Do Nothing
Let them be! Sometimes, just leaving dandelions in your yard is the best option. You’ll save time, money, and the stress of fighting an unyielding foe.
Eat Them
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Add the Flowers to a Salad
Add a pop of color and a sweet, crunchy bite to your salad with fresh dandelion flowers. -
Dandelion Vinegar
Infuse vinegar with dandelion flowers for a tangy, refreshing salad dressing. -
Dandelion Bud Capers
These crunchy, pickled buds make a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. -
Dandelion Jelly
This lightly floral, honey-sweet jelly is a delicious treat for scones, biscuits, or toast. -
Dandelion Syrup
Like maple syrup but happier, dandelion syrup is perfect on pancakes, waffles, or homemade vanilla ice cream. -
Dandelion Ice Cream
Turn those cheerful flowers into a creamy, delicious springtime treat. -
Sautéed Greens with Garlic
Sauté the greens in olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a tasty, healthy side dish. -
Bruschetta
Fresh dandelion leaves make for a delightful bruschetta base, especially when paired with homemade mozzarella. -
Dandelion Shortbread
Add dandelion petals to buttery shortbread for a subtle floral sweetness. -
Dandelion Bread
Incorporate dandelion petals into a loaf of bread for a delightful spring flavor. -
Dandelion Flower Fritters
Fried dandelion flowers make for a crispy, slightly sweet snack.
Drink Them
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Dandelion Mead
Make a sweet, floral mead from dandelion petals for a delicious homemade drink. -
Dandelion Wine
This light, floral wine is a great way to celebrate spring all year long. -
Dandelion Root Coffee
Roasted dandelion root makes for a great coffee substitute with its own unique flavor. -
Dandelion Leaf Tea
A slightly bitter tea made from dandelion leaves aids digestion and helps settle your stomach. -
Dandelion Soda
Make homemade soda using a ginger bug and fresh dandelion petals for a bubbly spring drink. -
Dandelion Kombucha
For kombucha lovers, try adding dandelion and fennel for a refreshing spring twist. -
Dandelion Bitters
Use dandelion bitters in cocktails like an Old Fashioned or for digestive purposes.
Wear Them
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Infused Oil
Infuse dandelions into oil for a soothing remedy for dry skin or to make lotions, salves, and lip balms. -
Melt-and-Pour Dandelion Soap
Craft your own homemade soap using dandelion petals for a fresh, springy touch. -
Dandelion Lotion
A creamy, moisturizing lotion made with dandelion oil will leave your skin soft and smelling like spring. -
Dandelion Perfume
Create a floral perfume with dandelion petals for a unique, spring-inspired fragrance. -
Dandelion Bath Soak
Relax and unwind in a dandelion-infused bath soak to soothe your muscles. -
Dandelion Face Mask
Dandelions are anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, making them great for skin care. Whip up a soothing face mask with dandelion petals, honey, and yogurt.
The humble dandelion is a gift that keeps on giving. Whether you choose to eat, drink, or wear it, there’s no shortage of ways to make use of this sunny plant. So, this spring, embrace the dandelions in your yard and let them shine!