The Cooking with Herbs Resource Guide
May 09, 2012 at 9:47 AM
By Samantha Grose, Designer, JP&CO: A residential construction firm dedicated to delivering a personalized home through a truly enjoyable process, done at a remarkable pace.
As I explained in my last blog, I love growing my own herbs for cooking. I no longer have to lament that one last, fresh herb ingredient I can’t track down at the local grocery store. Once you’ve gotten your herb garden started, you may realize that you face a new dilemma: Just what do you do with all of these amazing looking and smelling plants you’ve got growing? Below are some of my favorite recipe sites, herb guides, and, of course, my top 10 herbs and the way I enjoy using them when I cook.
My Personal Top 10 Herbs
- Basil – Salads, Pesto
- Rosemary – Eggs, Salmon, Bread, and so much more!
- Dill – Egg salad, Salmon
- Parsley – Pasta Dishes, Potatoes, Roasting
- Ginger – Peal it, freeze it, and pull it out as needed—it’s so simple to grate, and also makes a delicious addition to your favorite tea.
- Thyme—Roasting Vegetables, Soups, Marinades
- Cilantro—Pico de Gallo, Gazpacho, Shrimp, Salads
- Mint –Adds Flavor to Ice Water, Summer Cocktails, Spring Rolls, Stir-Fry
- Sage—Eggs, Roasted Chicken, Sage Butter Gnocchi, Hummus
- Oregano—Red Sauce, Pizza, Pickling
5 Easy Ways to Use Herbs, Starting Today
- Arrange a bouquet garni (a bundle of herbs tied together with a string) for your next stock or stew. Unsure of which herbs will work? I always let my nose guide me when it comes to combining flavors.
- Create a simple herb medley pesto. I love mixing different herbs, cheeses, nuts, garlic, and olive oil for an easy pesto with lots of different options for variation.
- Infuse oil by adding your favorite herbs (completely dry) to a full container of canola or olive oil for a special and distinct flavor.
- Marinades are a great place to put your crop to use. Just toss a handful of herbs into your typical salt, pepper, and oil combo to add a new dimension.
- Experiment with different herb additions to your typical salad—you just may find a new favorite.
For more original ideas on storage, uses, recipes, and more, visit some of my favorite sites:
11 Herbs Every Cook Should Use: Cooking Light Magazine
A Cook’s Guide to Fresh Herbs: finecooking.com
A Guide to Storing Herbs: Real Simple Magazine
The Best Healthy Recipe Finder: Rodale.com
Grose Samantha
Associate AIA, Allied ASID Designer for JP&CO.