Cresson Creative’s new products bring a continental twist to this very English of crops, combining the wonderful peppery ‘superfood’ with other locally sourced ingredients to present the best in handcrafted, seasonal cuisine, with the emphasis on creativity and versatility.  Whether you regularly host guests for parties, or you’re simply looking for some healthy new ways to feed the family, you’ll be delighted with these freezer and store cupboard-friendly recipes - all freshly prepared to save you the time and effort! 

Commenting on the new products, Managing Director and Head Chef Jennifer Laing, said: “We feel passionate about watercress!  It’s amazingly tasting, so versatile, and is renowned for its health benefits because it’s so rich in vitamins and minerals.  What I set out to do with our new range was to create recipes that would meet the increasing demand from customers who are keen to work watercress into their diets but who are also looking for dairy or gluten-free and/or low fat products.  The feedback so far has been incredibly positive so I’m very much looking forward to bringing these new recipes to our customers old and new at the Festival on 13 May.”

Here’s a sneak preview of what’s in store…

Watercress & Pear Soup with a Hint of Ginger
As refreshing and delicious as it sounds, peppery watercress works brilliantly with fruit and spices.  Fresh pear adds texture and a slight sweetness which is warmed with a touch of ginger spice.  Ideal as a starter any time of year, this soup is fantastic served hot or cold and is low fat without being low on taste.   Those with allergy concerns will also be delighted to know that Watercress & Pear Soup with a Hint of Ginger is dairy and gluten free.  It’s also preservative-free but freezes well for up to six months – a great unusual soup to pull out of the bag for unexpected dinner party guests!

Looking for inspiration?  Try serving small portions in shot glasses on a silver tray as a stunning canapé.

Watercress, Red Pepper & Tomato Sauce
Fantastic stirred into hot pasta and served with fresh salad and crusty ciabatta… but so much more than that!  Packed with flavour and colour, there’s a distinct Mediterranean feel to this sauce which combines roasted red peppers, sun ripened tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil with our favourite Hampshire crop.   Dairy and gluten-free and naturally low fat, Watercress, Red Pepper & Tomato Sauce is wonderfully versatile.  Mix with fusilli and top with breadcrumbs and parmesan for a hearty pasta bake.  Or add some more freshly chopped tomatoes and use to fill a baked potato for a healthy , tasty lunch.

Looking for inspiration?  Try combining with cous cous for a delicious baked aubergine filling for vegetarian dinner guests. 

Watercress Flatbread with Middle Eastern Spice
Light and low-fat, this is a truly versatile all-rounder which you’ll want to stock up your freezer with once you’ve tried it!  Here watercress has been combined with onion and coriander for a temptingly spicy (but not hot!) treat.  Light and puffy with a soft crust, this unusual flatbread is perfect for ripping and sharing! For a bit of a ‘wow factor’, you’ll love serving it at summer parties, BBQs and picnics – it’s fantastic with dips, pate and salad. 

Looking for inspiration? Let this seasons bold colours inspire you with a Middle-Eastern mezze meal!  Serve with cous cous, humous, olives and salad for a speedy brunch.

Watercress & Tomato Relish
Chunky and rich in colour and flavour, this fresh relish packed with ingredients is a store cupboard essential.  Serve it at the end of a dinner party to bring a unique twist to your cheese board.  Or for perfect ploughmans, serve with a selection of cold meats and fresh crusty bread, and always remember to pop a jar into picnic baskets to transform your average picnic into an al fresco delight!   Enriched with extra virgin olive oil, Watercress & Tomato Relish is dairy, gluten and preservative free and is best kept refrigerated to preserve the flavour… although it’s very unlikely that it’ll hang around that long!

Looking for inspiration? Dollop into a small crisp romaine heart lettuce leaves for a quick and easy refreshing yet ravishing canapé!  

For more information and watercress recipes visit www.cressoncreative.co.uk