Something Different: Give Watercress a Try

Washington, D.C. - American Institute for Cancer Research -infoZine - In reality, watercress is entitled to a superiority complex - atleast in terms of nutrition. A member of the mustard family,watercress is considered a cruciferous vegetable. Along withcauliflower, Brussels sprouts and kale (to name a few), cruciferousveggies are notable for the potential role they play in fending offdiseases like cancer. Watercress is also noteworthy as a richsource of beta-carotene; the antioxidant's telltale orange pigmentis hidden beneath the plant's chlorophyll.

While visiting England, I was fascinated to discover thatwatercress grows in running streams and brooks. I was alsosurprised to learn how many different varieties of cress there are.In the states, you may be lucky enough to find hot pepper (orgarden) cress. About the size of alfalfa sprouts, its tiny leavesdeliver astonishing fire. And the next time you visit the farmersmarket, be on the lookout for upland cress. This variety, whichgrows on dry land and has black-green leaves the size of quarter,has fleshier leaves that do not wilt as rapidly as other types ofcress.

Watercress can be used in a surprising number of ways. Going Asian?Combine it with mint leaves and cilantro, dress them with lime andfish sauce, and serve with thinly sliced grilled flank steak.Alternatively, combine cress with sliced endive and radicchio for aclassic, colorful side salad. Accompanying roast chicken, hot orcold, it makes an easy, elegant meal.

This recipe, my dairy-free, full-bodied version of vichyssoise (atraditional, cold potato-leek soup) is perfect for a hot summerday. Serve it icy cold, accompanied by an omelet, for a deliciouslight meal.

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Chilled Watercress Soup