How to Choose, Store, and Use Watercress

Don’t let the frilly leaves fool you. Watercress, a member of the mustard family, can really pack a punch.

Author:: Kendall Wenaas
Updated:: Jun 13, 2018
Original:: Feb 25, 2018

"Watercress is lettuce with an attitude. It's spicy, just like me!" –Rach

Buy

Choose watercress with perky dark-green leaves. Want less bite? Look for its milder cousin, upland cress.

Store

Think fresh flowers: Arrange a bunch in a glass of water, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and store in the fridge. If you’re short on real estate there, you can store watercress in a plastic bag in the crisper. Either method should help you keep your greens fresh for up to five days.

Use

Before using watercress, wash it, then shake or spin dry. Mix it with your favorite salad greens; add it to sandwiches; or try it as a bed for grilled or roasted meat or as a pretty peppery soup garnish.