
Cress
Cress, also known as garden cress, is a peppery, leafy green that adds a vibrant, zesty kick to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. These small, edible seedlings boast a crisp, slightly bitter flavor and a delicate, tender texture. Its appearance varies depending on the variety, but generally features small, vibrant green leaves and stems. Whether you're looking for fresh cress seeds to grow your own microgreens or simply searching for the perfect ingredient to elevate your next dish, cress is a versatile and flavorful choice. Consider adding it to soups, eggs, or even using it to create a flavorful cress pesto.
Common Uses
- Use fresh cress as a vibrant and peppery addition to green salads, mixed greens, and even fruit salads. The slightly bitter flavor of cress provides a delicious contrast to sweeter ingredients, offering a unique culinary experience.- Layer cress in sandwiches, wraps, and paninis to add a zesty bite and refreshing crunch. Its delicate leaves pair well with various fillings, from creamy cheeses to savory meats, enhancing the overall flavor profile.- Garnish soups, stews, and egg dishes with a sprinkle of fresh cress for a visually appealing and flavorful finishing touch. The bright green color and peppery taste add a touch of elegance and complexity.- Blend cress into homemade pesto for a unique and flavorful alternative to traditional basil pesto. Its peppery notes create a zesty and herbaceous sauce perfect for pasta, grilled vegetables, or as a spread.- Incorporate cress into egg dishes such as omelets, scrambled eggs, or frittatas for a subtle peppery flavor and enhanced visual appeal. It pairs perfectly with creamy cheeses and other savory ingredients.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
11.0kcal (0.55%)
Protein
0.8g (1.6%)
Carbs
1.7g (0.62%)
Sugars
0.2g (0.4%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
11.0kcal (0.55%)
Protein
0.8g (1.6%)
Carbs
1.7g (0.62%)
Sugars
0.2g (0.4%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in vitamins K, A, and C, contributing to bone health, vision, and immune function.
- Contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- A good source of glucosinolates, which may have anti-cancer properties.
- Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy addition to weight-management diets.
- Provides dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Cress is best used fresh and should be stored properly to maintain its crispness and flavor. To store cress, wrap it loosely in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent it from drying out. It's best to use cress within a few days of purchase or harvest for optimal quality. Avoid freezing cress, as it will become limp and lose its texture.
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