Among cruciferous vegetables, we are familiar, of course, with cabbage, broccoli, or radishes, but much more rarely with watercress. Yet, this semi-aquatic plant is so rich in vitamins and minerals that some have dubbed it since antiquity the "health plant". Watercress has only been cultivated in France since the early 19th century, although it has always grown wild in fountains, streams, and small watercourses. Watercress and curly cress are the most common varieties in France, available year-round in markets.
Nutritional Information
There's nothing like watercress for robust health! Watercresses are no exception among cruciferous vegetables: these vegetables are particularly rich in minerals, such as Vitamin K, useful for bone mineralization, or "bioavailable" calcium, easily assimilated by the body and very beneficial to bone and cardiovascular health. Flavonoid and carotenoid acids found in watercress also act against aging by activating cell renewal. These antioxidant acids help combat oxidative stress, which causes cellular health degradation. The scientific community is studying the effects of these antioxidants on the development of several types of cancers, and the results are currently very favorable. In fact, regular consumption of flavonoid and carotenoid acids found in watercress may limit the development of breast, prostate, or lung cancer, even in smokers, by inhibiting certain active agents that influence cellular mutations. Watercresses are particularly rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that mainly bind to retinal and macular cells. Watercresses are therefore good allies for your vision, reducing your risks of contracting such age-related eye conditions. Finally, sulfur derivatives in watercress, such as isothiocyanates, play a major role in protecting digestive system cells and intestinal flora. While these molecules may sometimes make watercress more difficult to digest, they are excellent for intestinal health and can even help combat certain cancers.
How to Enjoy Watercress?
Watercress can be consumed both raw and cooked. It is recommended to choose organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible to minimize the ingestion of harmful pesticides. Raw watercress is delicious in salads with goat cheese and spinach sprouts. The original recipe for watercress-ricotta tart will delight both young and old palates. In winter, you can also prepare delicious soups by simply adding carrots, potatoes, and onions to your watercress. Consider adding it to your mashed potatoes: watercress is refined enough to delicately enhance the flavor of a simple potato mixture. Watercress is also delicious lightly sautéed, served alongside certain fishes, such as salmon. In short, the delicate and finely peppery taste of watercress will add originality to all your recipes, from the simplest to the most sophisticated. Get cooking!