Edible

Sunflower petals are edible and can be used as a garnish for salads. Their young leaves and stems are also tender and taste like a cross between spinach and celery The seeds are a popular ingredient in baked goods, granola, and trail mix recipes Edible sunflowers with large, tender leaves and no bitter flavor are best for cooking In many parts of the world, sunflower leaves are used as a vegetable, similar to kale The young flower buds can be harvested and cooked like broccoli or cauliflower