Picking bergamot in the Dutch countryside is a delight—imagine wandering through sun-dappled fields, the citrusy fragrance filling the air as you pluck the vibrant leaves or flowers by hand. It’s even better with friends or family, turning the harvest into a shared adventure. Back home, bergamot’s bright, floral-citrus notes can elevate everything from teas to desserts.
For a refreshing bergamot tea, steep a handful of fresh leaves in hot water for 5 minutes, then sweeten with honey. Or infuse the petals into a simple syrup for cocktails—try a Bergamot Spritz with prosecco, a splash of soda, and a twist of lemon.
In the kitchen, bergamot shines in recipes like bergamot shortbread (cream butter and sugar, add zest, then bake) or a summer salad with shaved fennel, orange slices, and bergamot-infused olive oil.
For decoration, scatter the blossoms over a dining table or float them in a bowl of water with candles for a fragrant centerpiece. However you use it, bergamot brings a touch of sunshine indoors.