For children, dandelions are good for one thing: making wishes by blowing off the fluffy white tufts. For adults, dandelions are good for something much more practical: eating — especially before they flower, when the young leaves are perfectly tender.
Where: Dandelion greens can be found almost anywhere, but it's best to get them from a trusted farmer rather than a yard or roadside knoll where someone may have sprayed chemicals, pesticides or herbicides. They are available across the country.
When: January through May.
What to Look For: Vibrant color, thin stems and perky leaves.
Flavor Profile: Bitter, peppery and very green.
Health Benefits: The leaves are packed with vitamin A, vitamin K and calcium. They are also believed to reduce swelling and inflammation.
How to Eat Them: Try dandelion greens raw in a salad with rich ingredients like goat cheese, bacon or eggs. Briefly grill them to mellow out their bitterness and pair them with sweet-and-savory pancetta-wrapped figs. Sauté or braise them as you would spinach. Or include them in your next green juice for a delightful kick.
