It’s definitely bold in flavor and may take some getting used to, but if you learn how to pair it with other ingredients, the zingy bite can be quite enjoyable (more on that below). Basically, it’s a vegetable that is worth adding to your diet—plant-based or otherwise. Keep reading to learn more about watercress, what it is, why it’s good for you, and how to eat it. Watercress is often used as a salad green or garnish, and you can eat it raw or cooked. But it’s so much more than just a vibrant topping: “Watercress is nutrient-dense, meaning it contains a high level of vitamins and minerals relative to its calories,” says registered dietitian Mia Syn, M.S., RDN. However, vitamin K does interact with blood thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin). Talk with your doctor about how to best maintain consistent vitamin K levels. Watercress is also easy to camouflage and blend into dishes, such as this watercress, broccoli, and roasted garlic pesto recipe. There are a number of ways to enjoy watercress cooked, too. When you’re feeling under the weather, add a handful to your favorite soup or use it as a base, like this immune-boosting soup Parisian women swear by. You can also mix it into a slaw, such as this Brussels sprouts slaw, for the perfect lunch or dinner side dish. Zhu also notes that you can treat watercress like any other leafy vegetable: Consider sautéing, steaming, or baking it into different dishes, or simply tossing some into your morning omelet.
