When the heat of summer has you ready to wilt, this refreshing summer gazpacho with watermelon, tomatoes, and almond is guaranteed to cool you down. Marigold petals are used to make a slightly spicy, peppery oil with mild notes of citrus; it’s used in the soup and as a beautiful edible garnish. Avoid the bases or “heels” of marigold flowers, as they can be quite bitter.

Much ado about marigolds

Marigolds can refer to plants from the aster (Asteraceae) family, either from the genus Tagetes or from Calendula officinalis, known as calendula, which often goes by the name pot marigold. Note that not all species of marigolds are edible, so make sure you’re selecting an edible variety from a reputable source. Marigolds contain carotenoids, yellow pigments that support the body’s immune system, and lutein, also a carotenoid, that assists with eye health.