Discover the vibrant world of Calendula! This beautiful yellow flower has been a staple of herbal medicine for centuries, and its uses extend far beyond just healing. With its delicate petals and sunny disposition, Calendula is the perfect addition to any meal or self-care routine.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 unique recipes that showcase the many wonders of Calendula. From soothing teas and balms to flavorful spreads and jams, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking to boost your immunity, soothe a skin issue, or simply add some brightness to your day, these Calendula recipes are sure to delight.
So join us on this culinary journey and discover the many ways that Calendula can bring healing and flavor into your life!
Calendula and Honey Infused Tea
This calming tea combines the gentle, anti-inflammatory properties of calendula with the sweet, soothing qualities of honey. Perfect for a relaxing evening or a mid-day pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried calendula petals
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon raw honey
– 1 cup boiling water
– Lemon slice or honeycomb, optional
Instructions:
1. In a teapot, combine the dried calendula petals and loose-leaf black tea.
2. Pour in boiling water and let steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a cup and add the raw honey, stirring until dissolved.
4. Enjoy hot, or let cool to room temperature and serve chilled with a lemon slice or honeycomb garnish.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Calendula Petal Salad with Citrus Dressing
This vibrant salad celebrates the beauty of nature by incorporating edible calendula petals and a tangy citrus dressing, creating a refreshing and visually stunning dish perfect for springtime gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried calendula petals
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced blood oranges
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Citrus Dressing (see below)
Citrus Dressing:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rehydrate the dried calendula petals by soaking them in 1/4 cup warm water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced blood oranges, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
3. Drain the rehydrated calendula petals and add them to the salad mixture.
4. Crumble feta cheese on top (if using).
5. Drizzle the Citrus Dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including rehydration time)
Golden Calendula Rice Pilaf
This vibrant pilaf combines flavorful saffron-infused rice with the subtle sweetness of calendula petals, perfect for a comforting and healthy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup dried calendula petals
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with the water, soaked saffron, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the calendula petals and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and slightly caramelized (about 5 minutes).
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then stir in the caramelized calendula petals.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Calendula and Chamomile Soothing Balm
This gentle balm is perfect for soothing dry skin, calming irritations, and promoting relaxation. With the anti-inflammatory properties of calendula and the calming effects of chamomile, this balm will leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and comforted.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax
• 1 tablespoon dried calendula petals
• 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax and coconut oil over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and add the dried calendula and chamomile petals. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse their properties into the mixture.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar.
4. Add the lavender essential oil and stir well.
5. Pour the balm into a clean glass container with a tight-fitting lid.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steeping time)
Calendula Flower Butter Spread
Harness the power of nature with this simple recipe that combines the soothing properties of calendula flowers with creamy butter. Perfect for topping toast, using as a face mask, or adding to your favorite recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon dried calendula petals (Calendula officinalis)
– 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the dried calendula petals and stir until they are fully incorporated into the melted butter.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the honey until well combined.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining flower particles.
6. Transfer the spread to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None required
Enjoy your sun-kissed Calendula Flower Butter Spread on toast, crackers, or as a natural face mask!
Calendula Infused Olive Oil
Transform plain olive oil into a luxurious, golden-hued delight infused with the subtle flavor and aroma of calendula flowers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup dried calendula petals
– Glass jar or container with lid
Instructions:
1. Combine the olive oil and calendula petals in a glass jar.
2. Stir gently to ensure the petals are fully coated with oil.
3. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily to infuse the flavors.
4. After 2 weeks, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: None
This infused olive oil is perfect for enhancing salads, sandwiches, and marinades. Enjoy its subtle, sunny flavor on pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, or as a finishing touch for soups and breads. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Calendula and Lavender Bath Salts
Rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit with this calming bath salt recipe infused with the gentle properties of calendula and lavender. This blend promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and leaves your skin feeling soft and nourished.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Epsom salt
– 1 cup baking soda
– 1/2 cup dried calendula petals
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 10 drops lavender essential oil
– 5 drops chamomile essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine Epsom salt and baking soda.
2. Add the dried calendula petals and lavender buds to the mixture.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the lavender and chamomile essential oils (if using).
5. Store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None required!
To use: Add 1/2 cup of bath salt to your warm bath water, then soak for 15-20 minutes. Enjoy the calming benefits of this soothing blend.
Calendula and Oatmeal Healing Face Mask
This soothing mask combines the anti-inflammatory properties of calendula with the gentle exfoliating power of oatmeal, making it perfect for calming and comforting dry or irritated skin.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon dried calendula petals (or 1 teaspoon calendula extract)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 tablespoon yogurt
– 1/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the oats and calendula petals.
2. Add in the honey and yogurt, stirring until well combined.
3. Gradually add in the warm water, mixing until you achieve a smooth paste.
4. Apply the mask to your face, avoiding the eye area.
5. Relax for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Cooking Time: None needed! This mask is ready to use as is.
Calendula and Coconut Oil Skin Salve
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, has been used for centuries to soothe and calm the skin. When combined with the moisturizing properties of coconut oil, this salve is perfect for dry or irritated skin.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dried calendula petals
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
– 2 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax over low heat.
2. Add the coconut oil and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Add the dried calendula petals and stir well.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar.
6. If desired, add lavender essential oil and stir to combine.
7. Allow the salve to cool and thicken completely before using.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
This salve is perfect for dry skin, minor cuts and scrapes, or as a general moisturizer. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Calendula and Lemon Herbal Vinegar
This refreshing herbal vinegar is a perfect blend of calming calendula and citrusy lemon, creating a soothing and uplifting condiment for various uses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup dried calendula flowers
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Fresh lemon slices or edible flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the vinegar and dried calendula flowers in a clean glass jar with a lid.
2. Steep the mixture for at least 4 hours, allowing the calendula to infuse into the vinegar.
3. Strain the vinegar through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container, discarding the solids.
4. Add the lemon juice and honey (if using) to the vinegar, stirring until dissolved.
5. Store the herbal vinegar in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None required
Enjoy your Calendula and Lemon Herbal Vinegar as a digestive aid, salad dressing, or as a flavorful addition to soups and marinades!
Calendula and Mint Refreshing Iced Tea
Rejuvenate with this soothing and refreshing herbal tea, combining the gentle warmth of calendula with the cooling essence of mint. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a calming evening pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried calendula petals
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
– 1 quart water
– Honey or lemon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the dried calendula petals and fresh mint leaves.
2. Pour in the quart of boiling water, allowing it to steep for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture reaches your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a separate container to remove the solids.
4. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Sweeten with honey or squeeze a slice of lemon to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Calendula and Rose Petal Jam
This sweet and fragrant jam is a unique delight, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With its subtle floral flavor and vibrant yellow color, it’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup calendula flowers (dried)
– 1 cup rose petals (dried)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the dried calendula and rose petals in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the sugar, water, and lemon juice to the saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
6. Discard the solids and cook the liquid over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Calendula and Thyme Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the warm, golden flavors of calendula and thyme. This recipe combines the subtle sweetness of safflower petals with the earthy notes of fresh thyme, resulting in a truly show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried calendula powder
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, calendula powder, and thyme sprigs.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Calendula and Garlic Herb Bread
This recipe combines the bright flavors of calendula with the pungency of garlic, resulting in a savory bread perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup calendula petals, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the yeast to activate.
2. Add flour, salt, calendula petals, and garlic to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Calendula and Turmeric Golden Milk
This recipe combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with the calming effects of calendula to create a warm, comforting golden milk. Perfect for winding down after a long day or soothing a sore throat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, or oat)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground calendula petals
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the non-dairy milk over low heat.
2. Add the turmeric and calendula powder to the milk. Whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Add honey and black pepper to taste, if desired.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Calendula and Sunflower Seed Pesto
This vibrant pesto recipe combines the subtle sweetness of calendula petals with the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds, creating a unique and refreshing sauce perfect for springtime pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh calendula petals
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine calendula petals, sunflower seeds, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
3. Add lemon juice and process for another minute or until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Calendula and Ginger Digestive Tea
This herbal tea combines the anti-inflammatory properties of calendula with the warming, digestive benefits of ginger. Perfect for soothing upset stomachs or promoting a good night’s sleep.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried calendula flowers
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the sliced ginger and let it steep for 5 minutes, or until the desired level of spiciness is reached.
3. Remove the ginger from the tea leaves and add the dried calendula flowers. Let it steep for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Discard the solids.
5. Add honey to taste, if desired.
6. Enjoy your soothing Calendula and Ginger Digestive Tea.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Calendula and Vanilla Sugar Scrub
This luxurious sugar scrub combines the soothing properties of calendula with the warmth of vanilla, leaving your skin feeling smooth and pampered.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup calendula infused oil (or regular sweet almond oil as a substitute)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and coconut oil until well combined.
2. Add the calendula infused oil and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until smooth.
3. Fold in the honey until fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the scrub to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None (this is a sugar scrub, not a cooking recipe!)
Use this scrub once or twice a week on wet skin, massaging it gently before rinsing with warm water. Enjoy the soft, radiant results!
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors and healing properties of calendula with these 18 delicious recipes. From soothing teas and balms to flavorful dressings and jams, there’s something for everyone. Try the Calendula and Honey Infused Tea for a calming afternoon pick-me-up or whip up the Golden Calendula Rice Pilaf for a nutritious dinner side dish. Get creative in the kitchen with the Calendula Petal Salad with Citrus Dressing or make a homemade face mask with the Calendula and Oatmeal Healing Face Mask. Whatever your taste, calendula is sure to bring a ray of sunshine to your meals and self-care routine.