Fresh Stories Detail

Delicate, peppery, and bursting with nutrients, watercress is an underrated leafy green that deserves a starring role in your kitchen. Whether you're tossing it into a salad, blending it into a soup, or adding a fresh bite to your sandwich, watercress brings bold flavour and vibrant colour to the plate.

WHAT IS WATERCRESS?

Watercress is a leafy aquatic plant related to mustard and radish. Its small, round leaves and tender stems deliver a pleasant peppery bite that lifts the flavour of any dish it’s added to. Once considered old-fashioned, watercress is making a welcome comeback thanks to its taste and nutritional benefits — it's rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and is known for its high antioxidant content.

FLAVOUR PAIRINGS: WHAT GOES WITH WATERCRESS?

Watercress plays well with both delicate and robust flavours. Here are some of our favourite combinations:

1. Creamy textures – Pair watercress with avocado, crème fraîche, soft goat cheese, or a poached egg to balance its peppery bite.
2.  Fruits – Sweet fruits like pear, apple, or orange slices bring out the zesty side of watercress.
3.  Nuts & Seeds – Try toasted walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a crunchy and rich addition.
4.  Proteins – Watercress pairs perfectly with roast beef, smoked salmon, chicken, or grilled haloumi.
5.  Dressings – A zippy vinaigrette made with lemon, mustard or balsamic vinegar complements watercress beautifully.

Try this: Watercress, pear, and blue cheese salad with walnut vinaigrette—simple and stunning.

HOW TO SELECT WATERCRESS

Look for vibrant, deep green leaves with no yellowing or wilting. The stems should be crisp and not slimy. A fresh bunch should smell clean and slightly peppery. At Fruitezy, we source only the freshest, locally grown watercress—often harvested the same day it arrives in-store.

HOW TO STORE WATERCRESS

Watercress is delicate and best enjoyed fresh, but you can prolong its life with the right storage:

Trim the ends and place the bunch upright in a glass of water like a bouquet. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. Change the water daily.

Alternatively, wrap the bunch in a damp paper towel, place in a perforated bag, and store in the crisper drawer. Use within 2–3 days for the best flavour and texture.

HOW TO PREPARE WATERCRESS

Gently rinse the leaves under cold water to remove any grit or sand. Shake or pat dry with a clean tea towel. The tender stems are edible and full of flavour, but if they’re overly thick or woody, feel free to trim them away.

USING WATERCRESS:

·        Raw in salads, wraps, or sandwiches

·        Stirred into creamy pasta or risotto just before serving

·        Blended into soups or pesto for an earthy, peppery twist

·        As a garnish for roast meats or egg dishes

TAKE IT HOME FROM FRUITEZY

Whether you're a seasoned watercress lover or new to this green gem, Fruitezy has the freshest bunches waiting for you.