Edible flowers have been used as garnishes for centuries to add color and flavor to dishes. With their wide range of colors, shapes, and flavors, they provide a beautiful finishing touch to any dish, and many can be used to add unique flavors and garnishes to cocktails. The best part? Many of these edible flowers can easily be grown in your backyard. Here, we will explore some of the best edible flowers to use as a garnish, along with a cocktail recommendation for each
Our Favorites: Edible Flowers For Cocktails
Pansies and Johnny Jump Ups
Pansies and Johnny jump-ups are two additional edible flowers that are both beautiful and delicious. These flowers have a wintergreen flavor and are often used as a garnish for desserts such as cakes and ice cream. They are one of the most popular cocktail garnishes for floral cocktails and can transform any classic cocktail into a thing of beauty.
To use pansies and Johnny jump-ups as a cocktail garnish, simply glaze them with warmed jelly for a jeweled look. These flowers are also a great addition to cocktails, particularly those that feature floral and fruity flavors.
A cocktail that pairs well with pansies and Johnny jump-ups is the Lavender Martini.
This refreshing cocktail features a delicate floral flavor that is enhanced by the addition of pansies and Johnny jump-ups. Simply add a few flowers to the top of the drink for a beautiful and flavorful garnish.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a popular edible flower with a peppery flavor like watercress. They come in a range of colors and varieties and can be used in salads or as garnishes. They are also a popular ingredient in cocktails, particularly in gin-based drinks.
A great cocktail to try with nasturtiums is the classic Gin and Tonic.
Simply garnish the drink with a few nasturtium flowers to add a touch of color and a subtle peppery flavor.
Marigolds
Marigolds are another popular edible
For a refreshing cocktail that pairs well with marigolds, try a Citrus Margarita.
Add a few marigold flowers to the rim of the glass for a beautiful and tasty garnish.
Borage
Borage is a herb with sky-blue flowers and a light cucumber taste. It’s a popular ingredient in fruit and green salads and can also be frozen in ice cubes for cold drinks.
One cocktail that pairs particularly well with borage is the Cucumber Martini.
Simply muddle a few borage flowers in the bottom of the glass before adding the gin, cucumber, and other ingredients for a refreshing and tasty cocktail.
Bee Balm
Bee balm is a member of the mint family with minty-tasting flowers. It comes in a range of colors, including bright red, purple, and pink.
Bee balm is a great garnish for cocktails that feature mint, such as the classic Mojito.
Add a few bee balm flowers to the top of the drink for a beautiful and flavorful garnish.
Squash Blossoms
Squash blossoms are a popular edible flower that can be used in many dishes. They have a mild flavor and can be used in salads, soups, and stews. They are also a popular ingredient in cocktails, particularly in tequila-based drinks.
For a tasty and refreshing cocktail that pairs well with squash blossoms, try a Spicy Margarita.
Add a few squash blossoms to the rim of the glass for a beautiful and tasty garnish.
In conclusion, edible flowers are a wonderful addition to any dish, providing color, flavor, and beauty. The above flowers are just a few of the many edible flowers available, but they are some of the most popular and versatile. Whether you are using them in salads, soups, or cocktails, these flowers are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your dishes. Feeling fancy? Create edible flower ice cubes and add to water, cocktails, drinks, mocktails and lemonade!
If it’s winter or you cannot grow these edible flowers in your garden, many can be dried and preserved or even ordered online via Amazon.