Garden cress

Garden cress (Nasturtium officinale) is an aquatic herbaceous plant highly valued in cooking for its fresh, slightly spicy flavor, similar to that of radish. This ingredient is commonly used in salads, soups, sauces, and as a garnish, adding a distinctive and refreshing touch to dishes.

Native to Europe and Asia, garden cress grows naturally in fresh, flowing waters, such as streams and brooks. It is now widely cultivated in various regions of the world, including Latin America, due to its ease of growth and nutritional benefits.

Garden cress is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and also contains minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium. It is also notable for its content of antioxidants and bioactive compounds that may contribute to improving cardiovascular health, strengthening the immune system, and aiding digestion.

In different Hispanic American countries, garden cress is also known as watercress, common cress, or simply water lettuce, although the latter term may vary by region. It is important to note these synonyms to facilitate its identification in recipes.