23 Watercress Recipes We're Just Wild About (2024)

With its delicate stems and leaves, watercress often gets the garnish treatment. But nutritionally speaking, it offers far more than a sprinkle of peppery flavor. To maximize the crucifer's vitamin C benefits, enjoy it raw, says Bonnie Taub-Dix, a New York City-based dietitian and nutritionist. For a dose of antioxidants and calcium, harness it by the handful in these energizing recipes.

Watercress is a small dark, leafy green with thick stems and a peppery taste that mellows once it's cooked. It's available throughout the year, but it's at its peak from April through June. When shopping for watercress, look for healthy, green leaves and sniff for a fresh, spicy scent. Store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Watercress makes for a delicious base for salad recipes, like this Watercress, Radicchio, and Radish Salad pictured here. All three varieties of leaves are tossed together in a classic vinaigrette made with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or poached salmon—it goes well with anything and everything. Another simple salad option is this desk-friendly Watercress Chopped Salad, which is easy to take on the go and packed with protein-rich edamame and rich, ripe avocados.

We also like using watercress as a change in recipes where we might otherwise use spinach, such as one of the heart-healthy add-ins for this Mushroom, Parmesan, and Watercress Omelet. And it works double duty as a garnish and crunchy side for this takeout-inspired Orange Pork with Watercress Rice recipe.

Enjoy these fresh ideas and recipes that show off the wonder of watercress.