5 Herbs I Always Keep on Hand (and How I Use Them)

Keeping basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and cilantro on hand can elevate your cooking. Use basil for pasta and pizza, and add rosemary to roasts or baked goods. Thyme enhances soups and stews, while oregano pairs perfectly with tomatoes in sauces. Cilantro brings brightness to salsas and stir-fries. Each herb not only adds flavor but also offers health benefits. Want to know more ways to use these staples in your dishes?

Basil

Basil is a culinary superstar that can elevate your dishes with its aromatic flavor and vibrant green color.

You can easily incorporate basil into your meals by adding it to sauces, salads, and soups.

For basic herbal uses, try chopping fresh basil and mixing it into pasta, or sprinkle it on pizza for that authentic taste.

You can also infuse olive oil with basil for a fragrant drizzle over grilled vegetables. Additionally, making infused oils at home allows you to enjoy the essence of basil in your cooking for even longer.

When storing, keep basil in a glass of water or refrigerate it wrapped in a damp paper towel.

This ensures you always have fresh basil ready to enhance your cooking!

Rosemary

Moving from the bright notes of basil, rosemary brings a robust, earthy flavor that can transform both savory and sweet dishes. It pairs well with roasted meats, potatoes, and even desserts like cakes and pastries. When using fresh rosemary, chop the leaves finely to release their oils, or use whole sprigs for infusing flavor in stocks and marinades. Additionally, rosemary is known for its medicinal properties, such as improving digestion and boosting memory.

Keep this herb handy for a flavor boost!

Thyme

Thyme is an essential herb that brings a subtle, earthy flavor to a variety of dishes. You can use fresh or dried thyme in soups, stews, and roasted meats, enhancing their overall taste. It’s particularly great in Mediterranean cuisine, pairing well with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. For a simple infusion, steep thyme in hot water to create a fragrant tea that aids digestion. When using dried thyme, remember that its flavor concentrates, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to your preference. Keep thyme on hand to elevate your cooking effortlessly and add depth to your meals. Additionally, thyme offers health benefits that can support overall wellness, making it a must-have in your pantry.

Oregano

Oregano’s bold and aromatic flavor makes it a must-have herb in your kitchen. This versatile herb pairs beautifully with tomatoes, elevating sauces and soups.

Sprinkle dried oregano on roasted vegetables or mix it into marinades for a punch of flavor. Fresh oregano adds a delightful freshness to salads and pizza.

When using dried oregano, remember that its flavor intensifies, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Oregano also boasts health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. For those interested in cultivating fresh herbs, consider using mason jars for planting as a stylish and functional approach.

Keep it on hand for your Italian and Mediterranean dishes, and you’ll always have a flavor enhancer ready for your culinary creations.

Cilantro

Cilantro, with its fresh and zesty flavor, is an essential herb for adding brightness to a variety of dishes.

You can use it in salsas, guacamole, or as a garnish for tacos and soups.

Its unique taste enhances everything from stir-fries to curries, making it versatile in both Mexican and Asian cuisines.

When using cilantro, chop the leaves and stems finely to release their flavor, and add them at the end of cooking to preserve their freshness.

Store it in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel, and it’ll stay vibrant for longer, ready to elevate your meals. Additionally, growing cilantro in an indoor herb garden allows for a continuous supply of fresh herbs right at your fingertips.