Watercress is a green sent from the Heavens.  It truly is.  In our neck of the woods, we do have somewhat similar weather to that of various parts of Britain.  We get rain.  Oh yes, we get rain. Watercress loves water, of course.  So why then is it so hard to come by the beloved Watercress?  I have no idea, but I do know, if I see it in the Markets, I scoop it up with eager happiness.
Back in the day, when I was on my slow recovery from years of undiagnosed Celiac Disease, I purchased two books.  The first book was called Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. and a couple of years later their second book called Prescription For Dietary Wellness, Using Foods To Heal.  These books were a godsend for me.  You see, by then, I had stopped going to Doctors.  I am by no means suggesting you do this - this was a personal choice for me, based on some very bad experiences, wrong diagnosis for many years...I took responsibility for my own health.  I chose to heal through diet, acupuncture, massage, reflexology, herbs and vitamins,  yoga and much of my own research.  It was a slow recovery, three years to be exact, but it worked for me.  I have never regretted following this path.  It was a matter of choice, as it is with anyone looking to heal.
Now back to Watercress.  On page 62 of Prescription For Dietary Wellness, Using Foods to Heal, there is a wonderful description of the healing properties of Watercress.  Some of them being:  good for Anemia, Calcium deficiencies, liver and pancreas issues.  It is high in potassium, sulfur, Vitamins A, Calcium and Iron, as well as other essential minerals.
Fresh Parsley is another amazing wonder.  On page 66 there is a good description of the many healing benefits of Parsley.  Some of which are:  Benefits the kidneys, bladder, prostate, adrenal and thyroid glands to name a few.  As well it is rich in vitamins: A, B1, B-complex and C, Calcium and other minerals.  Great for the Digestion too.  Plus it adds so much flavor, what is not to love?
I love the sweet, peppery flavor Watercress has.  It certainly addresses some of the issues with Celiac Disease - Anemia, Calcium Deficiency, and Liver issues. When I see Watercress in the Markets, oh yes, I scoop it up.  And Parsley?  I use it always.
I kept this salad really simple.  Watercress, Shredded Cucumber, Green Onions, a Handful of Fresh Italian Flat Leaf Parsley, and diced Tomatoes.  In terms of a dressing, I wanted to keep it simple, so the fresh flavors would come through.
Juice of half a Lemon
1 minced garlic clove
Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil - a 3 to 1 ratio with the lemon juice
salt and pepper
This salad was not only beautiful, but super healthy and nourishing too.  My fingers are crossed, that down the road we will see more of fresh Watercress in the markets. Also, on a further note: we all need to figure out what works for us.  Each "body" is individualistic. What works for one, may not work for another. We are all unique.  All we can do is share our own experiences, learn from one another, and learn from our own bodies.  Our bodies hold unique knowledge and wisdom, that I believe, if we patiently, and gently, tune into that place, we will find healing.