Safflower

Safflower is an annual thistle-like plant, primarily cultivated for its seeds, which yield a valuable oil used in cooking and various industrial applications. Safflower oil is known for its neutral flavor, making it a versatile choice for frying, baking, and salad dressings where you want the taste of the other ingredients to shine through. The plant also produces vibrant orange-red petals that can be used as a natural food coloring, often acting as a less expensive substitute for saffron, lending a subtle tint to dishes like rice and stews. While the petals have a milder flavor profile than saffron, they still offer a visually appealing hue.

Common Uses

Using safflower oil for high-heat cooking: Safflower oil's high smoke point makes it an excellent choice for frying, deep-frying, and stir-frying at high temperatures without breaking down or imparting unwanted flavors to your food.
Making homemade salad dressings with safflower oil: Its light and neutral taste allows the flavors of your herbs, spices, and vinegar to truly stand out in homemade vinaigrettes and dressings.
Baking with safflower oil as a healthy alternative: Substitute butter or other oils with safflower oil in cakes, muffins, and breads for a moist and healthier baked good, as it's lower in saturated fat.
Substituting safflower petals for saffron to color rice dishes: When saffron is too expensive, use safflower petals to infuse a delicate yellow-orange color to paella, risotto, and other rice-based recipes; soak the petals in warm water first to release their color.
Adding dried safflower petals to herbal teas and infusions: The dried petals can be included in herbal tea blends for a subtle color and a mild, earthy flavor that complements other herbs and spices.
Using safflower oil in homemade mayonnaise and sauces: The neutral flavor of safflower oil makes it perfect for creating stable and delicious homemade mayonnaise, aioli, and other emulsified sauces without overpowering the other flavors.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

0.0kcal

Protein

0.0g

Carbs

0.0g

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

85.4g

Unhealthy Fat

9.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

Rich in unsaturated fatty acids, supporting heart health.
May help lower cholesterol levels due to its high linoleic acid content.
Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
Can promote healthy skin due to its moisturizing properties.
May possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing inflammation.
Source of omega-6 fatty acids, essential for various bodily functions.

Substitutes

Saffron

Storage Tips

Safflower oil should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent it from going rancid. An unopened bottle can usually be kept at room temperature for up to two years. Once opened, it's best to refrigerate the oil to extend its freshness and maintain its quality. Ensure the bottle is tightly sealed after each use.