How to Use More Fresh Herbs in Your Cooking

Mint
Photo by Eleanor Chen on Unsplash

Fresh herbs are a fantastic way to add flavor, freshness, and a nutritional boost to your meals. If you’re looking to elevate your cooking from good to great, incorporating more fresh herbs is a simple yet effective strategy. Here are some tips on how to integrate more herbs into your everyday cooking.

Understand Your Herbs

First, get to know the herbs available to you. Herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint might be familiar, but explore others like tarragon, chervil, or marjoram. Each herb has its unique flavor and works best in specific dishes. For instance, basil is a staple in Italian dishes, cilantro is essential in Mexican and Asian cuisine, and dill pairs wonderfully with fish.

Keep Herbs Fresh

To use herbs regularly, you need to store them properly to extend their freshness. Wrap herbs loosely in a damp paper towel and store them in a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. 

Incorporate Them Into Salads

An easy place to start can be incorporating herbs in your salads. Try adding chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil to your greens. Dill and tarragon work wonderfully in potato or egg salads. The fresh flavors will pop, making your salads more interesting and delicious.