Picking nigella under the open sky is a simple joy—running your fingers through its delicate blooms or plucking its seed pods, feeling the sun on your back as you fill your basket. It’s even better with friends or family, turning it into a shared adventure, laughing as you compare who’s gathered the most. Once home, the fun continues.

For decoration, tuck nigella’s starry blue flowers into a loose bouquet or dry them to sprinkle over wreaths and table settings. Its seeds add a peppery bite to dishes—toast them lightly and try these ideas:

  • Spiced Nigella Flatbreads: Knead dough with yogurt, a pinch of salt, and a tablespoon of nigella seeds. Roll thin, bake until golden, and brush with olive oil.
  • Roasted Carrot & Nigella Salad: Toss carrots with olive oil, honey, and nigella seeds, roast until tender, then finish with crumbled feta.

For a warming tea, steep a teaspoon of crushed seeds in hot water with a slice of ginger and a drizzle of honey. Or shake up a Nigella Gin Fizz: Muddle a few seeds with lime juice, add gin, simple syrup, and top with soda water for a floral, spiced twist.