Dandelions are free salad greens and are at the top of my list of great detox foods.
Dandelion greens support the liver, gallbladder, colon, and kidneys as a natural diuretic and a mild laxative. You can eat dandelion greens for vitamins A, B, C, & D – and minerals like iron, potassium, and zinc.
If you’re a little skeptical of going out to gather your own… not to worry! You can safely consume the entire plant (leaves, flowers, and roots) for all of its benefits and nutrition packed power.
I’ve been enjoying dandelion root tea and Curried Dandelion Leaves and Dandelion Pesto. Get the recipes below!
Curried Dandelion Greens
Ingredients:
- 4 cups dandelion greens, washed
- pinch of sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon green curry paste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Directions: Fill a saucepan half way with water and heat until steaming (just before boiling). Add your greens to the water and lower the heat to medium, letting them sit for 2-3 minutes. Strain the water and mix the greens with olive oil, green curry paste, and salt to taste.
Dandelion Pesto
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dandelion greens
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- sea salt to taste
- water, for consistency
Directions: Soak the walnuts for at least 30 minutes, and drain. Blend all ingredients until smooth. Add water for desired (thicker) consistency. Spread over your favorite foods and veggies – Enjoy!
Jenni Hulburt
