Sitting on my back patio this summer I watched this tiny purslane plant (portulaca oleracea) slowly take over my hibiscus planter. My first inclination was to pull it out as most of us consider purslane a weed. I stopped myself when I remembered some of the fun dishes I created with purslane in years past. What happened? Wasn’t purslane to become the next superfood?

True. You can find purslane sometimes at your local farmers’ market but it never really took off. Other cultures use it a lot more in their dishes than we do here in North America. 

Let’s take a look at what purslane is and why we should reconsider what we do with it.

What is purslane - a weed or to eat?

Purslane is a small, succulent-looking plant that you can find almost anywhere around the world. It thrives in poor conditions as well as richer soil and can often be found sprouting in cracks in the sidewalk, on the side of the road in a sunny location, or randomly in your garden where you least expect it.  

It is considered a green, leafy vegetable with small, green leaves and reddish stems. It has a slightly sour taste and reminds me a bit of watercress.  

Benefits of Eating Purslane

The cool part about purslane is that it is highly nutritious and available everywhere to be picked and consumed either raw or cooked.

Purslane is known for its high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and improve your immune system. 

Purslane is low in fat and most of its fat is in the form of omega-3, more precisely as ALA and EPA. While ALA can be found in many plants, EPA is mainly found in animal products like fatty fish. Therefore… compared to other plants, purslane contains a higher concentration of overall omega-3s than many others. Go Purslane!

Purslane also contains other antioxidants, minerals, and compounds that keep your body healthy, fight inflammation, reduce the likelihood of heart disease and improve your immune system. It is a great resource for vitamin A, C, and E, magnesium, manganese, potassium, iron, and calcium. 

Please note that purslane contains oxalates like spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, and peanuts. If you have kidney issues, please consult with your physician before eating too much of it. In general, plants that contain oxalates are also very nutritious and are really beneficial for your overall health.

Things to Do with Purslane?

My favorite way to eat purslane is raw in a salad or smoothies. While the stems are edible, I prefer to use only the tender end parts of the stems, along with the leaves and yellow flowers. 

Purslane gives a fresh and bright, juicy, lemony note to your dishes and pairs well with grilled meat, grilled vegetables, tacos, and even makes a great pesto. I encourage you to experiment and play with your food to see what you like best. 

Easy Purslane recipes

Purslane Pesto

You can make a simple purslane pesto by chopping a cup of purslane leaves and add them to a blender with some garlic, salt and pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, and nuts of your choice like raw almonds or pine nuts. Check out this fun recipe for Tomato Toast with Purslane Pesto from Floating Kitchen that you might enjoy.

Cucumber, Tomato, and Avocado Salad with Purslane

Purslane pairs well with cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado. You can simply arrange slices of cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado on a plate, sprinkle a handful of purslane leaves over it, and dress it in a simple lemon and honey dressing. It’s an easy and refreshing side salad for your summer barbeque.

Watermelon and Purslane Refresher

I love a simple watermelon and purslane refresher. Use two cups of watermelon cubes and blend them with a handful of tender purslane stems with leaves. So delicious! If you feel like a little cocktail, spice it up with a shot of vodka, tequila, or a bubbly rosé.

Sandwich Toppers

Use purslane like any other greens and herbs to make a delicious and nutritious gourmet sandwich. Purslane complements turkey, fresh mozzarella or even a roast beef sandwich. Get creative and play with your food!

If you like to grow fun herbs and greens, you may want to check out how I grow flavorful produce all year round indoors and outdoors right here.

Choosing a variety of healthy ingredients in your diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle (see disclaimer).