Pansies make a pretty garnish for salads and desserts.
Pansies are members of the violet family, and the patterns that mark pansy petals are
thought to resemble a face in contemplation. Pansies are slightly sweet, with a delicate
vegetal flavor.
Varieties
Pansies appear in a wide variety of colors, including purple, blue,
maroon, yellow, red, orange, and white, with bicolor and tricolor varieties as well.
Buying and storing tips
Pansies can be found in the produce section of some health food
stores, specialty markets, and supermarkets. Look for fresh blossoms with no signs of wilting
or browning. Store them loosely packed in a paper towel placed in a plastic bag in the
refrigerator.
Availability
Pansies are available all year long, but peak in early spring
months.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Immerse blossoms in cool water to flush out any tiny insects, and dry
thoroughly in a salad spinner. Add to salads using field greens, or use as a garnish for
desserts.
Nutritional Highlights
Not available. Edible flowers have not been well-studied for their nutrient content.
Copyright © 2002 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights
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Foodnotes.
The information presented in Foodnotes is for informational
purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts.
Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using
any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed
medications. Information expires December 2003.
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